RTWPB-I conducted consultations with kasambahays and their employers on possible minimum wage adjustments in the region on October 2-3, 2025 in San Fernando City, La Union and Dagupan City, Pangasinan, respectively.

Sixty (60) Domestic workers attended the consultations to voice their sentiments and concerns on the existing minimum wage rate in the region and to enhance their social protection.

Atty. Judi Khenn C. Faustino-Mojica, Attorney IV of RTWPB-I discussed the mandate of the board in setting minimum wages for private establishments and kasambahays. She also presented the socio-economic situation of the region and highlighted the importance of the entitlement of kasambahays to social security benefits such as SSS, PhilHealth, and PAG-IBIG.

Director Exequiel Ronie A. Guzman, DOLE RO1 Regional director emphasized: “We need to enhance the social protection of the domestic workers in the region.”

He reiterated the benefits provided by SSS, the Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) of PhilHealth, and the zero-balance billing policy implemented by the public hospitals in the region.

Director Guzman also reminded the employers of their legal obligations to provide 13th month pay, as well as the provision of non-cash benefits such as free meals and snacks, rest days, and other forms of support that promote the well-being of kasambahays.(Dino S. Dizon)