Odiongan, Romblon — Micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in Romblon are reinforcing their role as key drivers of inclusive growth as they prepare to comply with updated wage policies while adopting smarter productivity practices.

Traditionally anchored on marble quarrying, fishing, agriculture, and emerging tourism, Romblon’s economy has demonstrated steady recovery in recent years. Data from the Philippine Statistics Authority show that the province’s Gross Domestic Product grew by 3.4 percent in 2021, surged to 9.8 percent in 2022—reaching approximately ₱29.03 billion—and sustained its upward momentum with a 6.3 percent growth in 2024, valuing the economy at around ₱33.05–₱33.06 billion. This growth has been supported by infrastructure development, agri-tourism initiatives, and strong contributions from the services and industry sectors.

The steady expansion of MSME activities across municipalities underscores Romblon’s economic resilience, with enterprises continuing to serve as the backbone of local employment and livelihood generation.

In support of this momentum—while ensuring the protection of workers’ rights—the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB)–MIMAROPA, in partnership with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Romblon Provincial Office, conducted a two-day capacity-building activity on February 26–27, 2026 in Sampong, Odiongan, Romblon. The activity combined “Usapang 2Ps: Pasahod at Productivity”, ISTIV Bayanihan Training, and an orientation on Productivity-Based Incentive Schemes (PBIS).

The initiative was timely, coming weeks after the implementation of Wage Order No. RB-MIMAROPA-13, which increased the regional minimum wage to ₱455 effective January 1, 2026. The activity emphasized government support for compliant, competitive, and sustainable enterprises amid rising costs and ongoing economic recovery.

Day one focused on labor standards compliance and wage-related concerns under the banner of Usapang 2Ps: Pasahod at Productivity.

Ms. Karen Bugarin, Head of the DOLE Romblon Provincial Office, formally opened the activity and welcomed participants, emphasizing collaboration between government and the private sector. An inspirational message and comprehensive wage orientation were delivered by Atty. Ser Michael Lancelot P. Gamboa, Attorney IV, who discussed the salient provisions of Wage Order No. RB-MIMAROPA-13, Wage Order No. RB-MIMAROPA-DW-06 for domestic workers, and the critical issue of wage distortion, guiding employers on how to implement wage adjustments without creating pay inequities.

Ms. Kellen F. Esteves, Labor and Employment Officer II, discussed General Labor Standards (GLS) and labor relations, while Mr. Renell G. Mayo, Supervising Labor and Employment Officer, introduced Productivity 101, highlighting the link between fair wages, efficient operations, and sustainable enterprise growth.

The second day shifted to hands-on learning through ISTIV Bayanihan Training, coupled with an orientation on Productivity-Based Incentive Schemes (PBIS). The sessions were facilitated by Mr. Glenn D. Calinao, Senior Labor and Employment Officer, and Ms. Louie Marilyn E. Del Mundo, Labor and Employment Officer III.

Rooted in Filipino values of bayanihan or collective effort, ISTIV Bayanihan introduced participants to practical productivity tools guided by the ISTIV framework—Industriousness, Systematic approach, Time-consciousness, Innovation, and Value for work. Topics included basic productivity concepts, simple marketing strategies, organizational improvements, inventory and stock control, and basic bookkeeping to strengthen financial management.

The PBIS orientation explained voluntary, enterprise-level incentive programs that allow employers and workers to share productivity gains through gain-sharing mechanisms. As part of the two-tiered wage system—where the first tier is the mandatory minimum wage and the second tier consists of performance-based incentives—PBIS encourages cooperation, cost savings, and higher output while rewarding workers beyond the minimum wage.

The training concluded with action planning and form completion using the SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic, and Time-bound) approach, enabling participants to translate their learnings into concrete workplace improvements. Mr. Mayo delivered the closing message, encouraging sustained commitment to productivity and compliance.

Participants expressed appreciation for the program’s relevance and practical approach. Alyssa Falqueza Macadato, a café owner from Odiongan, shared that the training made MSMEs feel supported rather than penalized. “Sobrang beneficial po ng ISTIV Bayanihan Training ng RTWPB at DOLE. Bilang business owner, ramdam po namin na hindi kami nag-iisa. May mga programang talagang tumutulong sa amin para mag-grow at mas mapabuti ang pag-manage ng aming negosyo at mga empleyado. Hindi po ito nakatuon sa aming pagkukulang, kundi sa mga areas kung saan mas kailangan namin ng gabay at suporta,” Macadato said.

She added that the knowledge gained will help them become better, fairer, and more responsible employers—particularly important for island-based MSMEs facing challenges such as limited resources and market access.

Activities such as this demonstrate RTWPB-MIMAROPA’s commitment, in collaboration with DOLE and other stakeholders, to bridge labor standards compliance with enterprise empowerment. By combining wage education with practical productivity tools, the program helps MSMEs transform regulatory requirements into opportunities for resilience, innovation, and shared growth—benefiting both employers and workers across the MIMAROPA region. (Renell G. Mayo)