Tulfo seeks review of minimum wage hike policy

A resolution seeking a review of existing government policies on minimum wage increases was filed in the Senate.

"The current minimum wage will not be able to sustain the living conditions of workers, and many workers are facing significant financial difficulties as a result and the issuance of an emergency wage order may be necessary to address these challenges," Senator Raffy Tulfo said in his proposed Senate Resolution 476.

The inquiry, which will be led by the Senate committee on labor, seeks to improve the standard of living and quality of life for workers, particularly those in the lower income bracket.

Tulfo mentioned that the latest minimum wage increase took effect last June 4, 2022, with rates ranging from P533 to P570 per day in the National Capital Region.

Meanwhile, minimum wage increase outside Metro Manila took effect between June 6 to June 30, 2022, with rates ranging from P306 to P470.

However, Tulfo noted that inflation soared to 8.7% in January 2023 which had a significant impact on the cost of living, "making it difficult for workers to make ends meet on their current wages."

"It is imperative to improve the standard of living and quality of life for workers, particularly those in the lower income bracket and to ensure that the policies on the minimum wage increase are fair, effective, and consistent with the needs of the workers and the economy," Tulfo said. —VAL, GMA Integrated News