RTWPB-II is opening its doors to the public as it begins a region-wide series of consultations on the prevailing minimum wage rates. The initiative seeks to engage all concerned sectors in a meaningful dialogue on the possible adjustment of wages in the Cagayan Valley.

The consultations are part of the Board’s mandated wage review process, conducted periodically or when triggered by a supervening event. This year’s review is further anchored on President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that regional minimum wages remain just, reasonable, andreflective of current economic realities.

At a press briefing hosted by the Philippine Information Agency Region 2 on July 7, DOLE Regional Director and RTWPB Chairperson Jesus Elpidio B. Atal Jr. urged broad stakeholder participation in the scheduled consultations.

“We are inviting workers, employers, labor unions, and even kasambahay to voice their views. We need to hear from the ground to guide us in setting fair and realistic wage levels,” Director Atal said.

Atty. Lovely Mei R. Dela Cruz, OIC Board Secretary, and Information Officer Designate Francis Joseph M. Reyes, who were also present during the press conference emphasized the consultative and data-driven nature of the Board’s approach.

Currently, under Wage Order No. RTWPB 2-23, the daily minimum wage in the region stands at ₱480 for non-agriculture workers and ₱460 for agriculture workers, effective since October 2024. Domestic workers are covered under a separate order, 02-DW-06, entitling them to a monthly wage of ₱6,000.

In addition to the consultations, the Board has rolled out a wage survey—ongoing until July 15—in partnership with Public Employment Service Offices (PESOs). The survey aims to collect data on employer capacity and worker needs, providing a broader perspective on the adequacy of current wage rates.

𝐒𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐝𝐮𝐥𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐏𝐮𝐛𝐥𝐢𝐜 𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐮𝐥𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐬:

July 23 – Batanes (Hybrid) – 10:00 AM | Cagayan – 2:00 PM at DTI Negosyo Center, Tuguegarao City

July 24 – Isabela (Districts 1, 2, and 5) – 1:00 PM at PDRRMC Action Center, Ilagan City

August 6 – Nueva Vizcaya – 1:00 PM at Amungan Hall, Provincial Capitol, Bayombong

August 7 – Quirino and Isabela (Districts 3–6) – 1:00 PM at BOSS Center, Santiago City

These consultations are crucial steps that will influence the Board’s decision on whether a new wage order is necessary. If warranted, a public hearing will be conducted prior to the issuance of any adjustment, which will take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation. The public is encouraged to take part and help shape a minimum wage policy that supports decent work while sustaining business growth. For more details or to participate in the survey, contact RTWPB II at rb2@www.aliflora.vip or call (078) 844 0956. (Francis Joseph M. Reyes)