The wage increase in several regions for 2024 are far from meeting the needs of Filipino families. The latest wage increases are ₱23/day for non-agricultural workers and ₱35/day for agricultural workers in Region 10 (North Mindanao). If implemented, the new daily wages in the region will range from ₱446 to ₱461. Meanwhile, the wages of domestic workers will increase by ₱1,000/month. The wage increase will take effect on January 12, 2025.

“These adjustments highlight the inadequacy of the regional wage-setting system in addressing the worsening economic crisis faced by Filipino workers,” Bayan Muna Partylist national vice-chairperson and second nominee former Congressman Atty. Carlos Isagani Zarate said. The failure of regional wage boards to address the poverty experienced by workers nationwide has made calls for a national minimum wage more urgent.

Workers’ organizations have long criticized the regionalization of wages, which results in disparities and institutionalizes poverty. Additionally, capitalists exploit wage differences across regions to further impoverish workers outside the national capital.

“Wage hikes must be significant enough to provide dignified living standards. We need immediate reforms to uplift workers and protect their rights in the face of unrelenting economic challenges,” added Zarate.

According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), 14 regions have implemented wage increases within their jurisdiction this 2024. These range from ₱21 to ₱75. Meanwhile, nine regions have granted additional wages to domestic workers, ranging from ₱500 to ₱1000/month.

The mentioned amounts remain far from a living wage. According to the Ibon Foundation, a minimum of ₱1,200/day is needed for a family of five to live decently. No regional wage board has responded to this need.