RTWPB approves PHP35 daily minimum wage increase for Metro Manila workers

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Metro Manila approved a PHP35 increase in the daily minimum wage for private sector workers, effective July 17, 2023.

Labor Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma announced that those who are dissatisfied with this decision can file an appeal to the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) within 10 days from publication of the wage order, or until July 11.

Minimum wage earners in the National Capital Region will receive a daily wage increase of PHP35 starting July 17, bringing the non-agriculture sector's minimum wage to PHP645 and PHP607 for agriculture, service/retail establishments with up to 15 workers, and manufacturing establishments with up to 10 workers.

The new rates remain above the latest regional poverty threshold for a family of five, resulting in a comparable 5% increase in wage-related benefits covering minimum wage earners.

Labor groups such as TUCP are still advocating for a PHP150 legislated wage hike and propose that higher wage levels should also see an adjustment to avoid wage distortion, while employers like ECOP argue that further increases could impact small businesses and lead to inflation.