THE Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) yesterday joined the workers’ sector in pushing for living wages even while the proposed legislated wage hike still hangs in Congress.
In its Pastoral Letter after the 130th CBCP Plenary Assembly, the Philippine bishops said it is imperative for workers to get just wages enough to sustain their families.
“We are aware of the plight of workers in our country, that the salaries they receive are much below the living wages that enable workers to meet their needs and support their families,” said the CBCP.
They said this can be achieved by holding tripartite dialogues among employees, employers, and the government.
“We appeal for dialogue among employees, employers, and the government to arrive at mutually acceptable solutions on just wages as the workers rightfully demand and the Church’s social teachings advocate,” said the CBCP.
In turn, the prelates vowed not to exempt themselves from practicing what they preach.
“The Church must lead by example in ensuring fair salaries, benefits, and dignified treatment of workers in our church institutions,” said the CBCP.
The 19th Congress ended its session without ratifying the proposed wage hike bill that was strongly pushed by workers.
During the opening of the 20th Congress, several lawmakers refiled the legislated wage hike bill.
