Several senators expressed mixed reactions to the House of Representatives' approval on third and final reading of a bill mandating a ₱200 daily minimum wage increase, with lawmakers calling for a bicameral conference to reconcile the differences with the Senate's earlier version, which proposes only a ₱100 wage hike.

Senator Juan Miguel “Migz” Zubiri welcomed the development, calling it a much-needed lifeline for Filipino workers.

“I always err on the side of the workers,” Zubiri said. “At this time, our labor force really needs financial support, not just cash aid, because they are working. This wage law will help them and their families.”

He urged his fellow senators to adopt the House version or, if necessary, swiftly convene a bicameral conference committee before Congress adjourns sine die. “Hopefully, we can tackle this in the next three days and finally pass the law.”

Senator Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito acknowledged the urgency of the matter but emphasized the need to balance labor welfare and business viability, especially for small and medium enterprises.

“Whatever we can give to the laborers, let’s give,” said Ejercito. “But we have to ensure that businesses can survive this. It’s important that we don’t kill the goose that lays the golden egg.”

He noted that the House version, passed only the day before, had not yet been thoroughly discussed in the Senate. “A ₱150 compromise could be possible, but we need data to make an informed decision,” he said.

Senator Joel Villanueva, who chairs the Senate Committee on Labor and Employment, also urged caution, reminding the public that the Senate’s ₱100 wage hike bill was based on extensive consultations and hearings with labor and business groups.

“We believe ₱100 is practical and manageable,” said Villanueva.

“The ₱200 proposal is appealing, but it could be too burdensome for businesses. That’s ₱6,000 more per month per employee,” he said.

Villanueva said he was open to adopting the House version but warned of potential political implications.

“Let’s be honest — some might be setting this up for a veto by the President,” he said.

“If we adopt the ₱200, and the Palace finds it unsustainable, it could put the President in a difficult political position,” he said.

He also mentioned concerns that the sudden House move may be a “knee-jerk” or populist reaction.

All three senators agree that a bicameral conference committee is the most likely and logical next step. Villanueva added that there is still enough time to negotiate a final version of the bill before Congress adjourns.

“What’s clear is that our workers need a raise. The only question now is how much, and how fast we can get it done without hurting the economy,” he said.

Malacañang said President Marcos has not yet endorsed or committed to signing the proposed P200 wage hike bill, as he awaits the outcome of bicameral deliberations and a comprehensive review of economic implications.