- Employers told to comply with new wage hike starting March 13
THE LABOR and employment agency told employers on Friday, March 13, to comply with the minimum wage adjustment as the first tranche of the increase for private sector workers in the Davao Region takes effect.
“Compliance with the prescribed minimum wage forms part of the regular labor inspection agenda of the Department of Labor and Employment XI (DOLE XI),” the agency said.
Labor inspectors will conduct routine inspections to ensure employers’ compliance.
Payment of minimum wage has consistently been among the top areas of non-compliance in recent years, the agency stressed, citing previous inspection records.
Along with private sector workers, the new minimum wage rate for domestic workers of P6,500 across the region also takes effect.
Wage Order No. RB XI-24, approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board XI (RTWPB XI) on February 25, grants a P30 increase for the non-agriculture sector workers and a P20 increase for the agriculture sector workers to be implemented in two tranches: March 13 and September 1.
“With the first tranche taking effect today, the daily minimum wage in the agriculture sector increases from Php505.00 to Php510.00. Meanwhile, the non-agriculture sector minimum wage rises from Php510.00 to Php525.00,” DOLE told employers.
On the other hand, Wage Order No. RB XI-DW-04 provides an increase in the monthly minimum wage of domestic workers from the previous minimum wage rates of P6,000.00 and P5,000 in chartered cities and first-class municipalities, and other municipalities, respectively.
The wage order mandates a P500 and P1,500 increase for chartered cities and first-class municipalities, and other municipalities, respectively, bringing a uniform monthly minimum wage of P6,500.00 across the region.
“Employers are encouraged to comply with the mandated wage adjustments as a concrete expression of respect for workers’ rights and recognition of their valuable contributions to the enterprise,” Atty. Randolf C. Pensoy, DOLE XI regional director and RTWPB XI chairperson, said.
“Observing fair labor standards not only promotes the welfare of workers but also helps maintain industrial peace and productivity in the workplace,” Pensoy stressed.
DOLE, however, reminded that retail and service establishments regularly employing not more than ten workers, as well as enterprises affected by natural calamities and/or human-induced disasters, can apply for exemption from the wage increase until May 11, 2026, at the RTWPB XI.
Meanwhile, the Barangay Micro Business Enterprises (BMBEs) with valid Certificates of Authority issued by the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) are not covered by the minimum wage law under Republic Act No. 9178.
