The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board – Region VII (RTWPB – VII) conducted a Minimum Wage Public Consultation on 19 August 2026 at DPrince Hall, Golden Prince Hotel, Cebu City, with active participation from the labor, management, and government sectors.

Chairperson Atty. Roy L. Buenafe, on behalf of the government sector as Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) regional director said that three government sectors, namely, DOLE, Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DEPDev) reaffirmed their commitment to transparency and inclusivity in the wage-setting process, emphasizing the principle of tripartism in policy formulation. He also reiterated the primordial basis of wage deliberation, that is, based on science in consonance with the mandates of the Office.

Labor representatives underscored the urgent need for wage adjustments to address rising living costs and inflationary pressures.

Meanwhile, management, represented by FilCeb Business Club Inc., a business organization in Cebu that unites micro, small and medium (SME) establishments for economic growth and development led by their president, Mr. Rey Calooy, highlighted the importance of balancing workers’ welfare with business sustainability and competitiveness.

The consultation provided a constructive platform for dialogue, ensuring that diverse perspectives are considered in shaping wage policies for Central Visayas. Inputs gathered will guide RTWPB – VII in its deliberations on possible wage adjustments in the coming months. (Atty. Jess Russell F. Jumalon)