Sen Estrada files bill for phased salary hikes for gov workers

Senator Jinggoy Estrada has filed Senate Bill 2611, also known as the Proposed Salary Standardization Law VI, aiming to increase salaries for approximately 1.9 million government employees over four years.

The bill proposes phased salary increases of 10%, 11%, 12%, and 13% respectively, totaling a 46% raise by the end of the fourth year.

All civilian government employees, including public school teachers, nurses, and barangay personnel receiving monthly honoraria, would benefit from this proposed measure if it becomes law.

The bill excludes military and uniformed personnel, GOCCs not covered by the GOCC Governance Act of 2011, and individuals engaged through job orders or contracts with no employer-employee relationship.

Estrada stated that these salary hikes are intended to help government workers cope with rising prices and provide a decent living for their families while recognizing their dedication.

The proposed measure aims to make government worker compensation competitive, thereby retaining current employees and attracting new applicants.

In October 2023, a government employees' group protested in front of the Senate calling for a minimum wage increase to P33,000 per month.