The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-V (RTWPB-V) has officially implemented the first tranche of the new minimum wage increase for private sector workers in the Bicol Region, granting a ₱20 daily increase, from ₱435 to ₱455, effective April 8, 2026.

The wage adjustment provides immediate relief to minimum wage earners across the region as they cope with the rising costs of basic goods and services. This initial increase forms part of the total wage adjustment package approved by the Board under Wage Order No. RBV-23.

The Board emphasized that the ₱20 increase is intended to provide immediate financial support to workers while allowing businesses to gradually adjust through the staggered implementation of the wage increase.

“The first tranche reflects our commitment to respond to the urgent needs of workers while ensuring that enterprises, especially micro and small establishments, are given sufficient time to adapt,” the Board said.

The wage order was issued following extensive consultations and public hearings, as well as a thorough review of socio-economic conditions, including inflation, cost of living, and the capacity of employers to pay.

RTWPB-V also reminded all covered establishments to comply with the new wage rates.

The second tranche of the wage increase will take effect on December 1, 2026, which will raise the daily minimum wage further from ₱455 to ₱480, equivalent to an additional ₱25 increase.

Once fully implemented, the wage order will bring the total daily minimum wage adjustment to ₱45, reflecting the Board’s commitment to uplifting workers’ welfare while ensuring the sustainability of businesses in the region.

The implementation of the first tranche marks a significant step toward improving the welfare of workers in the Bicol Region while promoting balanced and sustainable economic growth. (Rizza Jane Z. Deblois)