Starting October 17, 2024, employees in private establishments across SOCCSKSARGEN will benefit from a wage increase as Wage Order No. RBXII-24 comes into effect. Workers in the region will receive a daily raise ranging from ₱27 to ₱48, depending on their industry and sector, marking a significant step toward improving worker compensation.
Wage Increase Breakdown
The wage increase will be implemented in tranches, affecting different sectors at varying rates:
- Agriculture and Non-Agriculture Sectors: Employees in these sectors will receive their increase in two tranches. The first tranche will take effect on October 17, 2024, while the second and final tranche will be applied on January 1, 2025.
- Retail and Service Sectors: Workers in these sectors will receive their wage increase over a longer period, with the adjustment being rolled out in four tranches. The first tranche will begin on October 17, 2024, and the final installment will be granted on June 1, 2025.
Impact on Workers
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) in SOCCSKSARGEN has highlighted that this wage hike is intended to support the cost of living adjustments amid rising inflation and increased living expenses in the region. By phasing the increase, the board aims to balance the needs of both employees and businesses, ensuring a manageable transition for all stakeholders involved.
The wage hike covers all private establishments, ensuring that workers in sectors such as agriculture, manufacturing, retail, and services will see improved compensation. For many, this increase is seen as a crucial step toward better wage equity, especially in light of the economic challenges that have affected workers’ purchasing power in recent years.
Regional Context
SOCCSKSARGEN, which includes the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, Sarangani, and General Santos City, has a diverse economic base, with industries ranging from agriculture to trade and services. The new wage order reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing labor conditions while considering the economic realities of the region.
The implementation of Wage Order No. RBXII-24 underscores the government’s efforts to improve workers’ welfare while maintaining economic sustainability. As the wage hike rolls out in the coming months, both workers and employers are expected to adjust to the new rates.
For workers in the region, the wage increase represents a much-needed boost in income, helping to offset inflationary pressures and improve overall quality of life.
