House eyes PHP350-PHP400 daily min wage hike for workers

The House of Representatives is considering a PHP350 to PHP400 daily minimum wage increase for private sector workers, while also taking into account the needs of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin praised the Senate's approval of the PHP100 daily wage hike but noted that it may be insufficient given current living costs.

Garin emphasized that a higher wage increase should not burden small businesses, as 98 to 99 percent of the business sector in the Philippines are MSMEs.

She stressed that while crafting laws is important, passing a legislated wage hike should not lead to business closures or layoffs.

Economists and labor groups have expressed concerns about the potential impact on inflation and small businesses, urging Congress to balance these factors.