Gov’t urged to resolve NCR wage hike delay
The Federation of Free Workers (FFW) on Saturday sought the government’s influence in urging Metro Manila employers to honor the first tranche of the P85 wage increase even amid its indefinite suspension by a Pasig City court.
“The sky will not fall, factories will not suddenly disappear, and unemployment will not automatically follow just because there is a small increase for workers to pay for rice, transportation and food,” FFW president Sonny Matula said in a statement by the group as it called on President Marcos and the Department of Labor and Employment (Dole) to step in and resolve this matter.
On Aug. 13, Branch 152 of the Pasig Regional Trial Court (RTC) issued a preliminary injunction suspending NCR Wage Order No. 27 after its temporary restraining order on the wage hike expired that day.
Article 126 of the Wage Rationalization Act (Republic Act No. 6727) states “No preliminary or permanent injunction or temporary restraining order may be issued by any court, tribunal or other entity against any proceedings before the [National Wages and Productivity] Commission or the Regional Boards.”
Construction companies Readycon Trading and Construction Corp. of Manggahan, Pasig City and R-II Builders of Diliman, Quezon City had petitioned against the increase, of which the first tranche of P60 would have taken effect on July 25. The second tranche of P25 is due yet on Jan. 20, 2027.
FFW said the wage increase would not just benefit workers, as higher salaries would help stimulate the economy, improve the purchasing power of consumers and increase the demand for various goods and services.
“The P60 is not a wrecking ball. That is purchasing power. And purchasing power is what makes the sound of a cash register, keeps the jeepney running, ensures that eateries are cooking, and helps the economy to continue turning,” Matula also said in the statement.
