Starting Dec. 2, the daily minimum wage for private sector workers and the monthly salary of domestic helpers in Region VIII will increase following the approval of a P30 and P500 pay hike, respectively, by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB), the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced on Saturday, Nov. 16.
In a statement, DOLE said the wage adjustments, under Wage Order No. VIII-24, were affirmed by the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) after labor groups raised concerns over the rising cost of living.
The P30 increase will bring the daily minimum wage for non-agricultural workers in establishments with more than 11 employees to P435, while agricultural workers will see their pay rise from P375 to P405.
The RTWPB also approved a P500 increase in the monthly salary of domestic workers, or "kasambahay," raising their minimum wage to between P5,500 and P6,000.
DOLE highlighted that the wage adjustments will benefit about 126,095 private-sector workers and 57,080 domestic helpers in the region, reflecting a 7 percent increase in daily wages and a 10 percent rise in wage-related benefits such as 13th-month pay, service incentive leave, and social security contributions.
Exemptions apply to Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) and retail or service establishments with fewer than 10 employees, as well as businesses affected by disasters, in accordance with Republic Act No. 9178.
The last wage orders for Region VIII, issued on November 6, 2023, took effect on November 30, 2023, marking significant milestones for worker compensation in the region.