DOLE approves P5 to P12 wage increase in Bicol region starting December 25

MANILA, Philippines – The Department of Labor and Employment gave the go signal for the minimum wage increase across the private sector in the Bicol region, just in time for Christmas.

The National Wages and Productivity Commission has affirmed Wage Order Number RB V-17 or the request of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)–Region 5 to increase the salary of minimum wage earners in the region.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said on Sunday, December 20, that the order will be effective starting Christmas Day, December 25. 

“The Commission has unanimously affirmed Wage Order Number RB V-17, which grants an increase of P5 per day to minimum wage earners in non-agriculture establishments whose employees are more than 10 workers, and a P12 per day increase to minimum wage earners, also in non-agriculture establishments employing not more than 10 workers,” Baldoz said.

Workers in non-agriculture establishments will receive a minimum wage of P265 per day.  

Meanwhile, workers in non-agriculture establishments employing not more than 10 workers, and those working in cottage/handicraft and in agriculture establishments will receive P248 daily.

The new rates apply to all minimum wage earners in the private sector regardless of their position. 

Household or domestic helpers, persons employed in the personal service of another, including family drivers and workers in Barangay Micro Business Enterprises, are not covered by the new wage order.

Baldoz said any person, corporation, or entity which refuses to pay the prescribed wage rates shall be penalized with a fine not exceeding P25,000 and/or imprisonment of one to two years. – Rappler.com