P85-wage increase sparks fresh battle as workers demand P505 hike

National

THE battle over wages in the National Capital Region (NCR) is far from over, with labor groups appealing the recently approved P85 increase and demanding a P505 adjustment.

The Unity for Wage Increase Now (UWIN) filed an appeal with the National Wages and Productivity Commission, arguing that the wage hike approved by the NCR Wage Board is insufficient to address the financial pressures faced by minimum wage earners amid recent price increases.

UWIN spokesman Allan Labahata said workers continue to struggle with rising household costs, including high electricity bills, food expenses, tuition payments, and other daily needs.

“The P85 (increase) is not enough. We are dealing with high electric bills and our salaries are not enough. Now where do we get payment for food, tuition and everyday expenses?” lamented UWIN spokesman Allan Labahata in a Philstar report.

The group had earlier petitioned for a P505 wage increase, saying the adjustment would help bring minimum wages in the region closer to the family living wage, which it pegged at P1,200.

UWIN reiterated that the higher wage demand is necessary, citing what it described as the failure of the Department of Labor and Employment and wage boards to fulfill the constitutional mandate of providing Filipino workers with living wages.

The group said the current economic situation requires a broader wage solution, adding that a minimal increase would not be enough for workers across the country to achieve a living wage.

The appeal comes as employers have raised concerns over the size of the P85 increase, warning that the adjustment could lead to layoffs and business closures.(MyTVCebu)