Labor groups in Central Visayas are demanding a P700 wage increase for Class B areas and P660 for Class A areas, according to a public consultation held on Thursday, June 25, 2026. The groups presented their proposal to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board Central Visayas (RTWPB 7), arguing that the current minimum wage of P540 per day is insufficient to cover the rising costs of food, transportation, fuel, and other basic needs.
Workers cite rising costs
During the consultation, labor leaders emphasized the urgent need for a wage hike due to the increasing prices of essential goods and services. Jaime Paglinawan, chairman of AMA Sugbo-KMU, criticized the RTWPB for its slow action, stating, "Aksyon ang gikinahanglan namo gikan sa RTWPB kay hinay kaayo ang RTWPB, hinay pa sa bao." He argued that a significant wage increase would not only benefit workers but also stimulate the economy by boosting purchasing power.
The consultation, held at the ABC Building in Cebu City, is part of the RTWPB-7's mandate to set wages. The event aimed to gather information on economic trends and sentiments from workers, employers, and other stakeholders before deciding on a possible wage increase.
Criticism of consultation process
Ariel Sarsaba, chairman of Driver Solidarity Philippines Inc., questioned the consultation process, noting that workers, including gas station pump attendants, have not received wage increases or adequate benefits. Eli San Fernando from Kamanggagawa Party-list argued that a P100 wage increase would not be enough to meet workers' needs.
According to the groups, the proposed increases are necessary to address the gap between wages and the cost of living in the region. The RTWPB-7 is expected to deliberate on the proposal and make a decision in the coming weeks.
