The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board – Region I (RTWPB-I) conducted a stakeholders’ consultation in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur on 03 September 2026 as part of efforts to strengthen social dialogue and ensure that the concerns of workers, employers, and other stakeholders are considered in its policy and program development.

Representatives from wholesale and retail, manufacturing, and tourism sectors gathered to discuss matters affecting wages, employment, productivity, and the overall welfare and competitiveness of enterprises and workers in the region.

During the consultation, RTWPB-I gathered inputs, insights, and recommendations from stakeholders on the prevailing conditions and challenges faced by both workers and employers. The activity also provided an avenue for participants to share their experiences and perspectives on issues that may affect the local labor market and business environment.

RTWPB-I Chairperson and Regional Director Honorina Dian-Baga, Regional Director Merlie D. Membrer of DTI Region 1, RTWPB-I Board Member Cathy Pangan representing the labor sector, Ms. Andrea Amor Mitre, Labor and Employment III of DOLE Ilocos Norte, and Ms. Mary Madeline Salvador, PESO Manager of Ilocos Sur participated in the consultation.

Mr. John Michael S. Sarabia, Supervising Statistical Specialist of PSA Ilocos Sur, and Ms. Genevive Waklin of DTI Ilocos Sur, and Engr. Ana Occidental of DOLE Region 1 also participated in the consultation to represent agencies that provide relevant labor, employment, business, and statistical information to support evidence-based policymaking.

The stakeholders’ consultation forms part of RTWPB-I’s commitment to participatory and evidence-based policymaking, recognizing the importance of consultation in developing responsive wage and productivity policies.

The inputs gathered during the consultation will serve as valuable reference in the RTWPB-I’s continuing assessment of regional wage and productivity conditions and in crafting programs and policies responsive to the needs of Ilocos Region stakeholders. (Fredilyn M. Alag)