The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga recently concluded the series of insightful sessions on wage distortion under "Usapang 2Ps: Pasahod at Produktibo in the different areas of Caraga.
According to RTWPB Caraga, wage distortion occurs when the variations in wage structures or rates among employee groups within an enterprise are significantly eliminated or substantially diminished due to mandated wage increases.
With this, the Usapang 2Ps brought together representatives from various sectors, including business owners, labor groups, and stakeholders. It served as a platform for discussing wage and productivity programs, highlighting the issue on wage distortions, and proposing solutions to address the challenges faced by both employers and employees.
A total of 329 micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) participated on the 2Ps caravan from different provinces of the region that started on January 12 with 70 MSMEs from Cabadbaran City; 40 establishments from Butuan City on January 19; and 63 firms from Bislig City on January 26.
On February 8, 48 MSMEs participated from Surigao City, followed by 47 establishments from San Francisco, Agusan del Sur and 61 firms from Tandag City on February 22 to 23, respectively.
One of the key highlights of the Usapang 2Ps activity was the emphasis on impact of wage distortion in the wage structure after the issuance of a new wage order. The importance of correcting wage distortion is to prevent issues and conflict between workers due to its effect. The discussions presented different suggested formulas for the company to work on as remedies and apply what is suited to their respective companies.
Dir. Earl D. Dela Victoria, board secretary VI, in his message, committed to provide technical assistance to establishments on productivity training including wage related issues such as wage distortion. He encouraged the employers and workers to communicate and negotiate in correcting it to sustain positive and harmonious working relationships.
“We are very optimistic that through these initiatives, firms may have a conducive environment where both employers and employees can thrive, ultimately contributing to the overall economic development of Caraga,” he said.
Addressing and correcting wage distortion is tantamount to a balanced and harmonious workplace. The commitment demonstrated by RTWPB Caraga underscores the importance of open communication and proactive measures to create a labor landscape that is not only productive, but also fair and reasonable for the well-being of the workers in general. (RTWPB-Caraga/PIA-Caraga)
