BBM open to dialogue on wage hikes

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is open to engaging with labor groups pushing for wage increases, as consultations in Metro Manila are expected to begin by mid-May, Malacañang announced Friday.

In a press briefing, Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized that the President remains receptive to discussions aimed at improving workers’ welfare.

“Ang Pangulo po ay lagi pong bukas sa anuman pong diskusyon para po sa ikabubuti ng mga manggagawa at hindi po iyan isinasara ‘yung pintuan,” Castro said.

She noted that labor and employer groups must clearly communicate the proposed schedule and structure of talks to facilitate meaningful dialogue.

“Kailangan lang din po siguro natin na masabi sa Pangulo kung papaano, kailan, para po magkaroon sila ng magandang pag-uusap,” she added.

During Thursday’s 123rd Labor Day celebration at the SMX Convention Center, Marcos underscored the need for careful assessment of wage hike proposals in the private sector, citing their potential impact on business operations, employment, and the overall economy.

“Sa usapin naman ng pagtaas ng suweldo, masarap pakinggan ang matatamis na mga pangako, ngunit ang mga ito ay may epekto sa paglago ng negosyo, trabaho, at ekonomiya,” the President said.

He reiterated his administration’s support for the labor sector, noting that 28 wage orders have been issued across 16 regions since June 2024.

Meanwhile, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) reported that preparations are underway for a public consultation between labor and employer sectors in the National Capital Region.

DOLE-NCR Director Sarah Buena Mirasol said a public hearing is set for June, and a new wage order could be released by July.

The region’s most recent minimum wage adjustment, which brought the daily rate to P645, took effect on July 17, 2024.