ANTIPOLO CITY, Rizal (PIA) — Public consultations on a possible wage rate hike for domestic workers or kasambahays in Region IV-A began in Rizal province on Friday, January 10.
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Calabarzon said the consultations seek to review whether it was appropriate to set another round of increase in the current minimum wage based on the needs of domestic workers, the employers’ capacity to pay and current socio-economic conditions in Calabarzon.
The current minimum wage set at P6,000 per month was issued on February 19, 2024.
“Napakahalaga po ng public consultation para marinig ang saloobin ng mga kasambahay at employers to determine kung dapat at panahon na ba talaga para itaas ang minimum wage for domestic workers in Region 4A,” explained lawyer Katrina Galang-Bayani, of RTWPB Calabarzon.
“Whatever rates the wage board releases with respect to the minimum wage will take all factors into consideration. We will hear both sides—household workers and employers—and we will also assess the regional economic situation,” Bayani added.
According to RTWPB IV-A, some 3,993 domestic workers in the region are expected to benefit from proposed wage hike.
Domestic worker organizations in Rizal are optimistic that the government will address their call for a wage increase and expanded benefits.
Riza Estrella, secretary-general of the United Domestic Workers of the Philippines, urged the board to increase the rate to ₱8,000 to help workers cope with rising costs.
“Napaka-importante na magkaroon na ng pagtaas sa sahod ng mga kasambahay nationwide para pantustos sa pang-araw araw na buhay, dahil hindi na po sumasapat ang kasalukuyang sahod na P6,500 sa dami ng pangangailangan.” Balangue said.
“Kaya kami po sa United Kasambahay ay humihiling ng P8,000 pataas kasi sa tingin namin ito ay karapat-dapat para matugunan ang pangangailangan ng aming pamilya,” she stressed.
Vivian Posadas, a domestic worker from Rizal also appealed for expanded benefits, particularly healthcare coverage and additional allowances.
“Sana po ay mabigyan din kami ng social benefits nang sa gayon po ay mayroon po kaming benepisyong makukuha sa aming pagtanda. Sana po ay mapakinggan po ito.”
Another public hearing is set in Bacoor City, Cavite, on Jan. 24. The board will then deliberate on any adjustments to the minimum wage for domestic workers which is expected to be released next month. (FSC, PIA4A)