Romualdez: House to fasttrack P200 daily minimum wage hike proposal

SPEAKER Martin Romualdez announced on Wednesday that the House of Representatives is expediting deliberations on a proposed P200 daily minimum wage hike to provide much-needed economic relief to Filipino workers.

The move aims to balance labor welfare with business sustainability, particularly for micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

“The House is working diligently to enact a wage increase that uplifts workers while ensuring MSMEs receive adequate support during this transition,” Romualdez said in a press release.

“This is a crucial step toward inclusive growth and economic resilience.”

On Tuesday night, Romualdez met with labor leaders from major organizations to discuss their call for a legislated wage increase.

Romualdez underscored the urgency of wage reform, citing inflation’s impact on essential goods and services.

He noted that the last legislated wage hike was over three decades ago, under the Wage Rationalization Act of 1989.

“With careful planning and broad sectoral collaboration, we can implement a wage increase that benefits both workers and the economy. The emerging consensus in the House suggests a P200 daily increase,” he revealed.

Romualdez highlighted the economic benefits of the wage hike, emphasizing increased household spending, business stimulation, and long-term economic growth. He reassured businesses, particularly MSMEs, that support mechanisms such as wage subsidies and exemptions are being considered.