The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that all Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) have completed their minimum wage adjustments, except for Region V.
In an exclusive interview with DZRH's Damdaming Bayan on Friday, DOLE Secretary Bienvenido Laguesma confirmed the information and explained that the delay in the minimum wage adjustment in Region V was due to the series of typhoons that hit the area.
"Gusto ko lang din ibalita [na] lahat ng regions, Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards, [ay] nakatapos po sa kanilang minimun wage adjustments at maliban po sa Region 5 na nagkaroon po ng decision ang board na i-defer muna ang pagtalakay, considering ‘yung sunod-sunod po na bagyo na tumama sa kanila at nandon pa sila sa state of calamity pa," said Laguesma.
Recently, the National Capital Region (NCR) implemented an additional P500 increase to the existing P6,500, raising the minimum monthly wage for domestic workers (kasambahay) to P7,000. This adjustment will take effect on January 4, 2025.
Furthermore, Region X, Northern Mindanao, has also completed its wage order for minimum wage earners and domestic workers.
For domestic workers in the said region, a P1,000 raise has been approved, increasing their wage from P5,000 to P6,000, effective January 12, 2025.
Laguesma further explained that domestic workers who fail to receive the wage increase should go to the DOLE office for assistance.
"Pwede po silang magpaabot ng kanilang reklamo sa amin pong hotline – 1349 – at aaksyunan po namin ‘yung kanila pong karaingan," he added.
In similar cases, if the 13th month pay is not received, workers are encouraged to visit the agency's office or call their hotline.
The Secretary then reminded employers to show empathy, particularly towards domestic workers, who look after the household. He emphasized that they deserve compassion and love, especially during the holiday season.
