New Wage Order Grants PHP35 Increase for Eastern Visayas Workers
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in Eastern Visayas has officially approved a significant pay raise for the region's workforce. On Monday, November 24, 2025, the board published Wage Order No. RBVIII-25, which grants a PHP35 daily minimum wage increase for all private sector employees. This adjustment is designed to be implemented in two separate phases to ease the transition for businesses.
Details of the Two-Tranche Implementation
The first phase of the wage hike provides an immediate boost of PHP17 to the daily minimum wage. This increase takes effect 15 days after the official publication of the order. Following this initial raise, the second tranche of PHP18 will be added, effective starting June 1, 2026. This structured approach ensures a gradual adjustment for the local economy.
Once fully implemented, the new daily wage rates will range from PHP422 to PHP452 after the first tranche, and then increase to a final range of PHP440 to PHP470. The exact amount within these brackets depends on the specific industry and the geographic classification of the workplace. The RTWPB emphasized that these new rates apply to a standard eight-hour workday and cover all minimum wage earners in the private sector, regardless of their job position, employment status, or how they are paid.
Higher Pay for Domestic Workers and Compliance Warnings
In a parallel move to support household workers, the wage board also issued Wage Order No. RBVIII-DW-06. This order substantially increases the monthly minimum wage for kasambahay (domestic workers) in Eastern Visayas. Their monthly salary has been raised from the previous PHP5,800 to a new minimum of PHP6,400.
The board issued a stern reminder to all employers, stating that refusal or failure to comply with the mandated wage increases will result in penalties. These penalties are enforced under Section 12 of Republic Act 6727, also known as the Wage Rationalization Act, as amended. The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has urged employers to prepare their payroll systems to reflect these changes as soon as the wage orders become effective.
The new wage orders received final approval on November 10, 2025, with unanimous consent from board members representing labor groups, management, and government agencies. This decision was the result of a comprehensive consultation process held in key areas across the region, including Tacloban City, Ormoc City, Maasin City, Naval, Calbayog City, Catarman, and Borongan City.
