Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Sunday, February 25 urged the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) to support the measure seeking to increase the daily minimum wage of employees in the private sector by P100 instead of recoiling at the idea.

Escudero made the call after Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma warned that the wage hike, once implemented, will lead to a possible price increase of basic commodities.

The senator said the DOLE chief should be advancing the welfare of the country’s workforce and support Senate Bill 2534, reminding the agency that its primary job is to look after the welfare of workers, and not to block any legislation that aims to uplift living condition of the labor force.

“Nagtataka ako bakit umaalma ang DOLE sa panukalang batas na ito (I’m puzzled why the DOLE is resisting this measure). It is supposed to take the side of workers,” Escudero said.

“What they are doing is DTI’s job… this all the more justifies the bill because no one is looking out for our workers and everyone is just simply pro-business.”

Last Monday, Escudero expressed his support for the measure saying Filipino workers have endured enough and deserve to be compensated more.

The Senate has already approved the measure on third and final reading.

At the same time, Escudero said he hopes that the House of Representatives will soon pass its own version of the proposed legislation so that the minimum wage earners in the private sector will finally have their long-delayed salary adjustment.

“Our workers have endured for a long time... My request and prayer is that the House will give it time and opportunity to revive it,” Escudero said.

“Debate if necessary, vote if necessary,” he also appealed.

“The important thing is that it can be discussed and given hope of passing to give hope to our workers,” the lawmaker reiterated.