By Rodolfo Dacleson II
(March 31, 2025) – A labor group on Monday called for the passing of a measure seeking a P200 increase in minimum wage nationwide, citing the need to alleviate the “dire situation” of workers and their families amid the “escalating political noise.”
The Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP) urged Pres. Bongbong Marcos Jr. to certify as urgent House Bill No. 11376 or the Wage Hike for Minimum Wage Workers Act to ensure its passage into law before the 19th Congress closes in June.
“Emotions fanned by social media are running high, but sadly, it has not been about the dire situation of Filipino workers and their families—their desperation for a take-home pay that affords them three nutritious meals on the table, which addresses the increasing stunting of our children, and which can ensure that our future workforce will be competitive,” said TUCP in a statement.
The TUCP urged candidates in the 2025 midterm elections to focus on labor reform, saying Filipinos have been the “unwitting collateral damage” of the quarrels of politicians.
“The harsh reality remains the same: Over five million minimum wage earners are trapped in poverty wages while millions more are overworked and underpaid. And what of the so-called ‘wage adjustments’ from the regional wage boards? Nothing but crumbs—gone before they even reach workers’ hands,” added TUCP.
The average minimum wage nationwide is P440. Independent think tank IBON Foundation, however, said this falls significantly short of meeting the basic needs of a family of five worth over P1,200 a day.
HB 11376, filed by TUCP Rep. Raymond Mendoza, is currently in the final reading. TUCP endorsed the candidacy of Marcos and Vice Pres. Sara Duterte-Carpio in the 2022 elections.
The Marcoses and Dutertes have been feuding since their UniTeam was abolished. It worsened following the arrest of former president Rodrigo Duterte by the International Criminal Court due to crimes against humanity over his brutal war on drugs.
“No amount of political bickering, grandstanding, and finger-pointing will fill empty stomachs, send children to school, or give workers the dignity of a decent life,” said TUCP.
(With reports from Marianne Enriquez, News5)
(PM)
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