Stakeholders from the construction industry across Central Visayas participated in an online information session on the Progressive Wage Model (PWM) conducted on March 12, 2026, via Zoom. The activity was led by the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) in coordination with the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-VII (RTWPB-VII).

The virtual discussion aimed to deepen stakeholders’ understanding of the PWM framework and explore its potential application in the construction sector, one of Region 7’s most dynamic and labor‑intensive industries.

The resource speaker, Ms. Sarah D. Mesina, Senior Labor and Employment Officer of the NWPC–Wages and Productivity Research and Development (WPRD), presented an overview of the core principles of PWM, emphasizing its role in linking skills development, productivity enhancement, and structured wage progression. Participants were also briefed on international best practices in PWM implementation, various adoption options, and sector-specific considerations relevant to construction work.

Ms. Mesina emphasized that the PWM is not intended to replace existing wage mechanisms but to complement them by creating clearer career paths, improving workforce skills, and supporting enterprises’ competitiveness.

An open forum followed the presentation, during which representatives from contractors’ associations, construction firms, and labor groups actively shared insights and concerns.

Mr. Runy M. Rosales of YBC, labor representative of ITC Construction, expressed appreciation for the clarity of the sample wage progression presented, particularly the transition from carpenter to junior carpenter with wages at least five to ten percent higher than the applicable regional minimum wage, coupled with National Certificate (NC) I or NC II certification requirements. However, he noted that the sample model presented was based on Singapore’s experience, where construction companies invest heavily in construction safety, health programs, and workforce development. He emphasized that local conditions pose challenges, as many Philippine construction projects operate under a lowest-bidder system that limits resources for training and worker development.

Meanwhile, Dr. Absalita Teves, Vice Chair of RTIPC7/Phil Contructor Asso-Contractor Association of Negros Oriental, Inc., observed that adapting the Singapore-like wage model may be difficult under current conditions. She pointed out that project cost assessments should consider location-specific factors prior to implementation, and some training centers lack adequate equipment and technical capability to effectively train the workers.

RTWPB-VII personnel thanked the NWPC for its technical guidance and emphasized that the construction sector remains a priority area for further study due to its diverse workforce and critical role in regional economic development.

The activity concluded with a commitment from both NWPC and RTWPB-VII to sustain the dialogue with stakeholders and provide additional learning sessions as part of wider efforts to enhance productivity and promote fair, progressive wage practices in Region VII.