The Employers Confederation of the Philippines (ECOP) warned that the proposed ₱200 across-the-board daily minimum wage hike for private sector workers could be counterproductive and harm the economy. EC
OP president Sergio Ortiz-Luis Jr. argued that small businesses, which make up most of the country’s enterprises, may struggle to afford the increase, potentially leading to higher prices or job cuts.
Despite concerns, the House Committee on Labor and Employment approved the bill, which mandates all private businesses to implement the wage hike without offsetting it through other benefits.
Labor groups welcomed the measure, calling it a long-overdue relief, but acknowledged that time is running out before Congress goes on recess.
The bill now moves to the House plenary for further deliberation, with strong support from lawmakers, including Speaker Martin Romualdez and Senate President Francis Escudero.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 31, 2025
