House of Representatives (Ellson Quismorio/ MANILA BULLETIN)

GP (Galing sa Puso) Party-list has expressed its backing of the proposed P200 minimum daily wage increase, which recently made headway in the House of Representatives. 

"Now, more than ever, we stand with Filipino workers and fully back the planned P200 daily wage increase for private sector employees," GP Party-list first nominee, lawyer JP Padiernos said in a statement Thursday, Feb. 6.

Padiernos was referring to House Bill (HB) No.11376, which hurdled the committee level and gained second-reading passage in a week's time.

This, after House Speaker Martin Romualdez rallied his congressman-colleagues for action on the historic piece of legislation. The last time a legislated wage hike bill was enacted was in 1989.

Padiernos says that advocating for fair wages and sustainable livelihoods for Filipino workers has always been a top priority for their group. 

He believes that passing HB No.11376 represents a significant step in advancing the welfare of workers.

The aspiring congressman highlighted that wage hikes not only recognize the dedication and hard work of Filipino workers but will also contribute positively to the nation's economy.

"Raising wages will help boost the Philippine economy by strengthening the purchasing power of Filipinos," he added.

According to the Philippine College Foundation, an average Filipino family of five requires P1,160 daily and P25,226 monthly just to meet basic living costs.

The IBON Foundation also reported in 2024 that minimum wages in over 17 regions of the Philippines remain insufficient to cover the essential needs of a Filipino family, including food and other basic expenses, despite previous wage increases.

“Our group believes that a livable wage will motivate workers to be more productive and committed, which is essential to building a robust economy for our country,” Padiernos concluded.