Starting December 1, workers earning the minimum wage in the Bicol region will see a modest boost in their daily pay, with the new rate set at P435. This marks the second installment of a two-part wage adjustment approved under Wage Order No. RBV-22, which was ratified by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB V) on March 10, 2025. The first P20 increase took effect on April 5, 2025.
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The Wage Increase and People’s Sentiments
Imelda Gatinao, regional director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) and chairperson of the RTWPB V, emphasized that the increase applies to all minimum wage earners in the private sector, regardless of their role, designation, or employment status, and irrespective of how their wages are paid.
“This wage increase will apply to all minimum wage earners in the private sector in the Bicol region, regardless of position, designation, or employment status, and irrespective of how their wages are paid,” Gatinao said.
The adjustment comes as a welcome relief for many workers struggling to keep up with rising prices. Utility worker Rosalie Castillo, 45, from Barangay Dapdap, shared her appreciation for the additional income. She noted that the extra P20 per day would help cover household expenses and allocate a bit more for her family’s needs.
However, not all workers feel the increase fully addresses the challenge of rising living costs. Mary Jane Opena of Guinobatan, Albay, described the raise as helpful but still insufficient. “For me, as someone receiving minimum wage in the province, this wage increase is a significant help. However, with the continuous rise in the prices of goods, it still feels insufficient, especially for those supporting families. Currently, the minimum wage barely covers personal expenses and is not enough to meet the needs of an entire family,” she said.
Glydel Sarcia, another minimum wage earner, expressed a more tempered sentiment. She acknowledged that while the increase is better than nothing, further wage adjustments would be necessary to cope with inflation and provide meaningful support for families. “However, given the rising cost of living, I hope for further increases in the minimum wage, especially for those of us with families,” Sarcia added.
Impact on the wider Filipino community
For the average Filipino in Bicol, even a modest wage increase provides some breathing room in daily finances, allowing workers to better manage essentials such as food, transportation, and utilities. While it may not fully offset inflationary pressures, the adjustment signals ongoing government efforts to protect vulnerable workers and gradually improve livelihood conditions.
Overall, reactions from Bicolanos reflect a mix of optimism and realism. Many appreciate the incremental support, seeing it as a step in the right direction, while others highlight the continuing challenges of rising prices and express hope for more substantial adjustments in the future.
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