The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-VI (RTWPB-VI), chaired by Department of Labor and Employment Regional Office VI Regional Director Atty. Sixto T. Rodriguez Jr., convened a Stakeholders’ Dialogue on July 21, 2026 in Iloilo City following the filing of three separate wage petitions by workers’ organizations seeking a ₱250-increase in the regional daily minimum wage and the grant of a Cost-of-Living Allowance (COLA).

The petitions cited supervening conditions arising from the global oil supply disruption and its adverse effects on the regional economy as grounds for the proposed wage adjustment.

A total of 33 representatives from the management sector and 25 representatives from the labor sector participated in the dialogue. Numerous MSME stakeholders from across the region also joined the proceedings virtually through Zoom and Facebook Live, further expanding stakeholder engagement and participation in the wage review process.

The dialogue was conducted in line with the Regional Board’s mandate under Republic Act No. 6727, otherwise known as the Wage Rationalization Act, to undertake continuing studies and periodic reviews of the region’s socio-economic conditions as the basis for responsive, evidence-based, and balanced wage policy formulation. The activity likewise formed part of the Board’s continuing assessment of the prevailing economic environment amid increasing calls from various sectors for regulatory wage intervention to cushion the effects of rising living costs.

During the discussions, labor sector representatives expressed strong support for an upward adjustment of the regional minimum wage, emphasizing that sustained increases in the prices of basic commodities and essential services have significantly diminished workers’ purchasing power. They stressed that a wage increase is necessary to enable workers and their families to cope with escalating living expenses and maintain a decent standard of living.

Representatives from the management sector, on the other hand, presented varying perspectives on the petitions. While some expressed reservations regarding the proposed adjustment, others conveyed support for providing wage relief to workers. However, they raised concerns over the amount and timing of the proposed increase, noting that many micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) continue to navigate economic uncertainties and may face challenges in absorbing additional labor costs amid the ongoing effects of the global oil supply disruption.

The dialogue provided an avenue for both labor and management stakeholders to articulate their positions, concerns, and recommendations, enabling the Regional Board to obtain a broader understanding of the potential socio-economic implications of the wage petitions.

The Regional Board is expected to carefully deliberate on the information, perspectives, and recommendations gathered during the dialogue, alongside relevant economic indicators and technical assessments from its inter-agency partners. These inputs will guide the Board in determining the appropriate course of action that balances the welfare of workers with the viability and competitiveness of businesses, while supporting the overall sustainability of the regional economy. (Marc Maio P. Judicpa)