The RTWPB–Caraga has approved two new wage orders granting pay increases for private sector workers and domestic workers, effective 03 January 2026.

Under Wage Order No. RXIII-20, minimum wage earners in the private sector will receive a total of ₱40 increase, to be implemented in two tranches. The first tranche of ₱20 will take effect upon implementation of the wage order, while the second tranche of ₱20 will be applied on 01 May 2026. This adjustment will raise the region’s daily minimum wage from ₱435 to ₱455 on January 3, 2026 and further to ₱475 on May 1, 2026.

Meanwhile, Wage Order No. RXIII-DW-06 mandates a ₱500 increase for domestic workers or kasambahays, bringing their monthly minimum wage to ₱6,500. Unlike private sector workers, kasambahays will receive the full increase immediately upon effectivity.

The wage board, composed of representatives from government, labor, and management, said the decision followed careful deliberation on Caraga’s socio-economic conditions, workers’ needs, and employers’ capacity to pay.

DOLE Caraga Regional Director and Board Chairperson Atty. Jason P. Balais emphasized that the new wage orders are expected to uplift minimum wage earners and stimulate the regional economy.

The wage increase translates to roughly a 4.9% rise from the previous minimum daily wage rate in Caraga, aiming to reach the poverty threshold of the region amounting to ₱12,390 per month for a family of five. (Atty. Lorainne D. Sacote)