RTWPB-MIMAROPA provided timely updates on wages, productivity, and key labor policies in the region during a Kapihan sa PIA MIMAROPA virtual presser on January 22, 2026.

The Kapihan, held at the PIA Conference Room in Calapan City, was streamed live on the official social media pages of PIA, DOLE, and RTWPB MIMAROPA.

RTWPB MIMAROPA Chairperson Naomi Lyn C. Abellana announced the updated wage floors: ₱455.00 per day for private sector minimum wage earners and ₱7,000.00 per month for domestic workers. She underscored that wage decisions are the result of tripartite consultations, public hearings, and data-driven deliberations, taking into account the welfare of workers, business sustainability, and the region’s economic realities.

“We understand the concerns of workers, but wage adjustments must remain fair and economically sustainable,” Abellana said. “MIMAROPA’s economy is largely driven by agriculture and fishing and is dominated by micro and small enterprises. Setting wages beyond what the regional economy can support may risk business closures and job losses, and can push more workers into informality. This is also why MIMAROPA should not be directly compared with neighboring regions, especially given higher operating costs such as water, electricity, and transportation in the region.”

OIC‑Board Secretary VI Philip D. Ruga presented the Board’s mandate and the salient features of the new wage orders. During the Q&A, the Board addressed questions on balancing worker and employer interests, compliance and enforcement, reporting of non-compliance, and the role of barangays under RA 10361 (Batas Kasambahay), including registration of domestic workers and dispute resolution.

The Board also emphasized that minimum wage sets a legal floor, but sustainable income growth is best achieved by linking wages to productivity and collective bargaining at the enterprise level.

“Minimum wage adjustments set the floor, but long-term income gains are more sustainable when linked to productivity,” the Board noted, encouraging employers and workers to participate in RTWPB productivity programs and technical assistance initiatives.

Through this engagement with PIA MIMAROPA, RTWPB MIMAROPA reaffirmed its commitment to tripartism, social dialogue, and productivity-driven growth, ensuring fair wages, competitive enterprises, and a resilient regional economy. (Ser Michael Lancelot P. Gamboa)