AT least 190,000 Filipino domestic workers are expected to benefit from the increase in the minimum allowable wage (MAW) in Hong Kong, according to the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW).
In a statement, the DMW said 190,000 Filipino domestic workers stand to gain from the increase in the monthly salary from HK$4,990 (US$641) to HK$5,100 (US$655).
“The Minimum Allowable Wage (MAW) of foreign domestic workers, including overseas Filipinos, has been increased by 2.2 percent,” said the DMW.
“The adjustment is a positive step that affirms the dignity and rights of domestic workers,” it added.
And with the new wage rate in effect starting September 30, the department is reminding all recruitment agencies and employers to ensure compliance with their employment contracts.
“We urge Philippine recruitment agencies, employers, and Filipino domestic workers in Hong Kong to ensure that contracts signed from today reflect the updated wage provisions,” said Cacdac.
On the other hand, he said the Migrant Workers Office (MWO) in Hong Kong is ready to closely monitor compliance with it.
“The MWO is prepared to assist OFWs in enforcing contracts and reporting any cases of non-compliance,” said Cacdac.
The wage adjustment in Hong Kong comes on the heels of the decision of the DMW to increase the minimum wage rate for Filipino domestic workers to US$500 via DMW Advisory No. 25 – 2025.
Set under the 2006 HSW Policy Reform Package of the then Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA), the previous minimum wage rate for domestic workers was at US$400.
