Central Luzon Minimum Wage Earners to Receive Second Pay Hike Starting April 16
Minimum wage earners in Central Luzon are set to receive another significant pay increase, with the second tranche of a wage hike taking effect on April 16, 2026. This adjustment follows the implementation of the first tranche, which was rolled out on October 30, 2025, marking a continued effort to boost earnings for workers across the region.
Details of the Wage Order
Under Wage Order No. RBIII-26, issued by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) III, workers will benefit from an additional increase of up to ₱40 in their daily wages. This new hike is part of a broader total wage adjustment ranging from ₱50 to ₱80 for private sector employees in Central Luzon, which is being implemented in two phases to ease the transition for businesses.
Specific Wage Increases by Sector and Province
The wage adjustments vary by sector and location, ensuring tailored support for different industries. In provinces such as Bataan, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Tarlac, and Zambales, the minimum wage in the non-agriculture sector will now reach ₱600 per day. For the agriculture sector, workers will receive ₱570 daily, while those in retail and service sectors will get ₱590.
In Aurora, the daily minimum wage will be set at ₱560 for non-agriculture workers, ₱545 for agriculture workers, and ₱515 for retail and service employees. These figures reflect the region's commitment to addressing economic disparities and supporting livelihoods across diverse job markets.
Context and Impact of the Wage Hike
This second tranche builds on the first increase, which earlier granted a ₱20 to ₱40 rise in daily wages. The phased approach aims to balance the needs of workers with the operational capacities of employers, promoting sustainable economic growth. The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board plays a crucial role in these decisions, ensuring that wage policies are fair and responsive to local conditions.
Overall, this wage hike is expected to enhance the financial stability of thousands of workers in Central Luzon, contributing to improved living standards and economic resilience in the area.
