A total of 4,907,584 minimum wage earners in 14 regions benefited from salary adjustments in the country in 2024, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said on Monday, Jan. 13.
DOLE data showed that private sector workers received daily wage hikes ranging from P21 to P75 under wage orders issued nationwide.
The adjustments covered the National Capital Region (NCR), the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR ), and Regions 1 (Ilocos), 2 (Cagayan Valley), 3 (Central Luzon), and 4-A (Calabarzon).
They also included Regions 4-B (Mimaropa), 6 (Western Visayas), 7 (Central Visayas), 8 (Eastern Visayas), 9 (Zamboanga Peninsula), 10 (Northern Mindanao), 12 (Soccsksargen), and Caraga, with rates tailored to the specific needs of each area.
In Metro Manila, Wage Order NCR-25 raised the daily minimum wage by P35, increasing it from P610 to P645 and benefiting approximately four million workers.
Northern Mindanao recently implemented its latest wage hike under Wage Order No. RX-23, granting P23 increases for non-agriculture workers and P35 for agricultural workers, effective in two tranches starting Jan. 12.
Domestic workers in nine regions, including Metro Manila and Mimaropa, also received salary adjustments ranging from P500 to P1,100.
Notably, Wage Order NCR-DW-05 raised the monthly minimum wage for household helpers in Metro Manila to P7,000.
To enhance the wage determination process, the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) amended the Omnibus Rules on Minimum Wage Determination in 2024.
The changes allow Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) to conduct reviews and issue wage orders more efficiently.
Last year, four regions—Regions 3, 4-A, 7, and 10—streamlined their wage structures to improve clarity and compliance.
However, wage adjustments in Bicol and Davao remain pending. Bicol deferred its review due to the aftermath of Severe Tropical Storm Kristine, while consultations in Davao are ongoing, with results expected by January 2025.
To support businesses in calamity-affected areas, RTWPBs continue to accept applications for wage exemptions.
The DOLE also offers programs such as the Adjustment Measures Program (AMP) to assist both workers and employers in managing economic disruptions.