THE Nagkaisa Labor Coalition (NAGKAISA) yesterday urged President Marcos Jr. to reconsider his stand on the proposed P200 daily wage hike bill approved by the House of Representatives and certify the measure as urgent.
In a two-page letter to Marcos, the labor sector urged him to help push for the immediate passage of the legislated wage hike proposal, saying it would help provide relief to Filipino workers.
“We, in the NAGKAISA Labor Coalition, humbly urge you to certify as urgent the proposed P200 daily wage increase bill of the House of Representatives, allowing Congress to fast-track its passage in response to the severe economic hardship faced by Filipino workers,” the group said.
Last Friday, Marcos said the measure will require careful study regarding its economic implications, citing concerns raised by the employers’ sector.
Marcos also noted the legal issues, saying the regional wage boards are mandated to determine the increase in wage rates.
“Mr. President, Filipino workers have waited long enough. We call on your leadership to prioritize this measure and prove that your administration is genuinely committed to uplifting the lives of the working class,” it added.
The group said Marcos can certify the measure as urgent, saying it is a way to address an existing “public calamity or emergency” as provided under the 1987 Constitution.
“The current economic conditions, marked by rising inflation, unaffordable food prices, and stagnant wages, constitute an urgent crisis that demands immediate government intervention,” it said.
The group also said the P200 pay hike being pushed is not excessive as it is just enough to provide small relief to workers.
“This will ensure that workers receive the just compensation they deserve and that their wages reflect the real cost of living in the country,” it said.
The group said the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) have failed to uplift the lives of workers for the past 36 years.
“Every single minimum wage in the Philippines remains below the poverty threshold for a family of five,” it said.
Last Thursday, the House Committee on Labor and Employment approved the bill mandating a P200 daily across-the-board wage increase for private sector workers.
Back in March 2024, the Senate approved a P100 legislated daily minimum wage hike for private sector workers.
The bill’s passage would pave the way for the country’s first legislated wage increase since 1989.
