House minority lawmakers have refiled a bill to establish a National Wages and Productivity Board and set a standardized minimum wage of P1,200 nationwide, replacing the current regional wage boards.
The bill, House Bill 2599, aims to amend the Labor Code to abolish regional boards, which critics say create wage disparities despite similar work efforts across regions.
Lawmakers argue that wages have failed to keep up with rising prices of basic goods, with current minimum wages falling short of a living wage estimated for a five-member family.
The measure also includes penalties for employers who refuse to pay the national minimum wage, including fines, back pay, moral damages, and possible imprisonment.
Advocates say the regional wage boards are outdated and slow to respond to economic changes, pushing for a more unified and fair wage system.
Source: PhilNews24 | July 31, 2025
