House moves to abolish regional wage boards, set single rate

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has ordered the fast-tracking of a sweeping overhaul of the country’s wage system, after key bills were consolidated to establish a single national minimum wage and abolish the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards.

The consolidated measure combines several proposals pending before the Committee on Labor and Employment, authored by lawmakers across party lines. The broad backing signals growing momentum to restructure how wages are set nationwide.

Dy convened principal authors and leaders of major labor groups, including the Federation of Free Workers and other national unions, on 24 February to align on the reform framework. During the meeting, the Speaker thanked labor representatives for sharing their concerns with the House.

“I fought for higher wages during my time as Governor of Isabela,” Dy said. “We owe our workers a fair and unified wage system, and the House will act on this.”

Immediately after the meeting, Dy directed that the consolidated bill be included in the plenary agenda for discussion next week. He committed to tackle the measure at once, with the goal of securing its passage by Labor Day.

Under the proposal, wage-setting authority would shift to the National Wages and Productivity Commission, replacing the current regional boards. The plan adopts a phased approach, with the initial national minimum wage set no lower than the prevailing rate in the National Capital Region. It also provides transition support mechanisms to help affected sectors adjust.

If enacted, the reform would narrow long-standing regional wage gaps and establish a clearer national wage floor for workers across the country.

With plenary debate set for next week and a Labor Day target in sight, Dy signaled that wage reform is a priority and that the House intends to deliver.