Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri on Monday, May 1, renewed his commitment to pushing for legislation that would protect and advance the interests of workers across the country, particularly with regard to the pressing need for a wage hike. “This Labor Day, I join all our workers in fighting for decent benefits, living wages, and fair working conditions,” Zubiri said. “This is especially crucial as rising costs of goods and utilities continue to hit our people’s pockets, to the point that even toiling with a full-time job is no longer enough to support their families’ needs, he added.” Good evening. On the other hand, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda said: "My heart swells with gratitude and admiration for the hardworking men and women who tirelessly contribute to the progress of our beloved country.’’ "On this special day, we honor the labor force of the Philippines, the backbone of our economy, whose dedication and unwavering spirit empower our nation to rise above challenges,’’ she stressed. "May this Labor Day be a reminder of our shared responsibility to build a just and equitable society where all workers can thrive and prosper,’’ she pointed out. "As your senator, I am committed to championing the rights and welfare of our workers, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and access to social protection. Together, let us strive for an environment where every laborer is valued, respected, and given the opportunity to succeed,’’ she added. Zubiri pointed out that the National Capital Region (NCR) currently has the highest daily nominal wage rate, at P570.00 (non-agriculture), while the lowest is at P316.00 (non-agriculture), for the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM). At the onset of 2023, the Philippines saw its highest inflation rate in fourteen years, hitting 8.7 percent. “We urgently need to address the growing gap between wages and expenses, which is why last March, I filed an across-the-board wage increase act.” Zubiri said. Zubiri’s Senate Bill No. 2002, or the Across-the-Board Wage Increase Act of 2023, seeks to raise wages in the private sector across all regions by P150. “We must uplift our workers, and ensure that they get the compensation they deserve. Workers form the foundation of the entire business sector, and without them, our economy and country will fall apart,’’ he emphasized. ‘’So let us give them their due. By providing a true living wage, we empower our workers to support not only their families and their communities, but also the country at large,’’ he said.