The RTWPB-VII launched a regional public consultation on minimum wage adjustment on July 14, 2025, at the DepEd Ecotech Center, Sudlon, Lahug, Cebu City. 

The RTWPB-VII conducted the public consultation to gather inputs and evidence in order to make a fair and balanced decision on setting or adjusting the minimum wage in the region. 

The event was attended by around 60 participants, including labor leaders, business group representatives, and representatives from the government sector, who voiced their opinions and concerns on the proposed wage hike. 

DOLE Regional Director and RTWPB-VII Chairperson Atty. Roy L. Buenafe emphasized the importance of such inclusive dialogue. “One of the very reasons for having this public consultation is to understand the sentiments of our stakeholders and to gauge their reactions as a mechanism for gathering inputs, which may be taken into account during the wage deliberation process,” said Atty. Buenafe. 

Mr. Antonio Cuizon, RTWPB-VII Wage Board Labor Sector Representative, expressed his confidence in this avenue. “Wage board members will be able to come up with the best decision because such an opportunity is crucial for both workers and employers to be heard,” said Mr. Cuizon. 

Dr. Philip Tan, RTWPB-VII Wage Board Management Sector Representative, shared that a wage policy order should reflect economic realities on the ground, which requires listening to the most affected groups of persons. “This consultation allows us to listen and make informed, equitable decisions,” Dr. Tan said.  

Philippine Statistics Authority OIC-Regional Director Wilma Perante presented the updated Labor Force Survey, which includes comparative data between Central Visayas and other regions across the country.  

Director Perante explained that the data showed significant growth in terms of socio-economic factors, serving as parameters in defining a prospective wage hike. “The Labor Force Survey plays a critical role in shaping labor, economic, and social policy. Its impact lies in providing the evidence base for understanding the labor market, promoting informed decisions, and supporting sustainable and inclusive economic development,” she said.  

RTWPB-VII Board Secretary Atty. Evita G. Mendoza-Balane presented the current minimum wages in the Philippines, while highlighting the comparison of current minimum rates among the regions, which could be one of the bases for the Board members to consider a wage adjustment. 

During the open forum, labor and employer representatives shared their concerns and opinions. During the dialogue, nine labor leaders expressed their earnest plea that the increase should not be minimal but significant enough to achieve the so-called “living wage” provided under the law, considering that the former P200 wage hike bill has already lapsed in Congress. They were in unison that a significant wage hike would compensate for the rising prices of basic commodities. 

On the other hand, five representatives from the business groups countered with the proposition that the supposed P200 wage hike and a significant wage increase may hurt the economy of the locality, which tends to deter investors from entering the country’s economic arena and could create a dreaded rise in unemployment rates. 

RTWPB-VII assured all participants that their inputs will be considered in the minimum wage adjustment process (Atty. Jess Russell F. Jumalon).