MANILA, Philippines — In a recent House hearing on proposed minimum wage hikes, research group Ibon Foundation stressed that an across-the-board increase is urgently needed. Ibon executive director Sonny Africa said the actual value of the minimum wage today is lower than 35 years ago, in 1989, in 16 out of 17 regions. ADVERTISEMENTHe pointed to a 22 percent contraction in the average real minimum wage since 1989, even as worker productivity has increased by 88 percent over the same period. Africa argued that wage hikes need not be inflationary if employers accept a small profit cut rather than pass on costs. ‘Urgent, just and doable’The research group urged legislators to approve an across-the-board minimum wage increase, calling it “urgent, just and doable.”Meanwhile, Gabriela, a women’s rights group, said in a statement on Sunday that regular work opportunities, increased wages, and equal pay for women are needed.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer March 03, 2024 21:11 UTC