The second tranche of the ₱40.00 minimum wage increase under RTWPB-Bicol’s Wage Order No. RBV-22 took effect on December 1, 2025.

Under the said wage order, the increase was set in two tranches: the first ₱20.00 increase took effect on April 5, 2025, while the second ₱20.00 increase will now be implemented starting December 1, 2025. This adjustment applies to all covered private sector workers across the Bicol Region.

DOLE Regional Director and RTWPB Chairperson Imelda F. Gatinao emphasized the Board’s intent to uphold fair and just compensation for workers while maintaining a business-friendly environment.

“The effectivity of this second tranche is part of our ongoing effort to balance the needs of our workers and the capacity of our employers to sustain operations. We urge all establishments to fully comply with the new wage rates effective December 1,” said Director Gatinao.

Labor Representative Dante Encinas expressed that the wage adjustment is a welcome relief for Bicolano workers, especially amid rising costs of basic commodities.

“This increase will provide additional support to workers and their families as they strive to meet their daily needs. We recognize the government’s and the employers’ continued efforts to ensure that wage policies remain responsive to the realities of our times,” Encinas stated.

Meanwhile, Employer Representative Romeo S. Tan acknowledged the cooperative effort between labor and management sectors in crafting balanced wage adjustments.

“We appreciate the consultative approach taken by the Board. This two-tranche increase allows businesses, particularly micro and small enterprises, to adjust gradually while still meeting their obligations to workers,” Tan noted.

RTWPB-Bicol reiterates its commitment to promoting productivity, decent work, and harmonious labor-management relations across the region. The Board continues to uphold its mandate of ensuring just and equitable wage policies that reflect both economic realities and social justice. (Rizza Jane Z. Deblois)