Kidapawan City, Cotabato Province — The RTWPB-XII held a public consultation on minimum wage determination for workers in private establishments and domestic workers on August 19, 2025.

The event, which brought together 86 representatives from the labor, management, domestic worker, and government sectors, is part of the board’s ongoing efforts to ensure a transparent and inclusive wage-setting process. 

 The consultation served as a platform to discuss wage concerns affecting Cotabato Province. The participants were given the chance to present their positions and sentiments, which will help guide the board in drafting a balanced and evidence-based wage order. 

RTWPB-XII officials emphasized that the dialogue is not merely a formality but a crucial process in reflecting the real conditions on the ground.  

Representatives from the labor sector underscored the impact of inflation and the rising costs of basic commodities on workers’ daily lives. “Taas na ang kontribusyon, gasolina, ug presyo sa mga batakang panginahanglan—maong ang dugang sweldo makatabang gyud aron makaya ang adlaw-adlaw nga gasto,” one worker said. They emphasized that wage adjustments would not only improve living conditions but also recognize employees as the most valuable assets of any business. 

The management sector, however, raised concerns about business sustainability. A representative higlighted the importance of considering employers’ capacity to absorb additional costs stating,  “Habang kinikilala natin ang pangangailangan ng mga manggagawa, dapat din nating tiyakin na kayang maitaguyod ng negosyo ang anumang dagdag na pasahod.” The representative underscored that a balanced approach is necessary to protect both jobs and enterprises. 

Domestic workers also shared their perspective, with some noting that many of them receive pay rates above the set minimum wage. “Mas taas pa ang amoang nadawat karon kaysa sa gi-set nga minimum wage sa kasambahay, apan importante gihapon nga patas ug igong sweldo ang mahatag kay dako kaayo kini’g tabang para sa among pamilya,” one kasambahay explained. Their testimonies underscored that beyond rate itself, ensuring fairness and consistency in pay remain as key concerns. 

RTWPB-XII officials assured participants that their positions and sentiments will be carefully considered during Board’s deliberations. The consultation underscored the principle that minimum wage determination must strike a balance between promoting workers’ welfare and sustaining business growth.  

The next public consultation is scheduled to be held in the City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, on August 27, 2025. ( Randy Oliver M. Legada)