The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-XII (RTWPB-XII) on 18 August 2026 commenced its first consultation on possible minimum wage adjustments in SOCCSKSARGEN. 

A total of 114 participants attended the consultation, including 55 management representatives, 26 labor representatives, and 29 government-sector participants. Also represented were one management union and three labor unions, providing stakeholders an avenue to share their concerns, recommendations, and relevant data on the region’s socio-economic situation. 

RTWPB-XII Chairperson and DOLE XII Regional Director Imelda F. Gatinao led the consultation alongside Management Representatives Dr. Warren Gregorio A. Manilay and Atty. Romeo A. Sustiguer, Jr., and Labor Representatives BM Alice B. Duma and Alfe H. Saldo. The Board’s Vice-Chairpersons from NEDA-XII and DTI-XII were also represented, while the Secretariat was headed by Ms. Eva Karla H. Lacambra, Board Secretary VI. 

The consultation featured discussions on the minimum wage-setting process, wage updates, the regional socio-economic profile, and prevailing prices of basic commodities.  

Ms. Sandra J. Aldo, Chief Economic Development Specialist of NEDA-XII, and Mr. Geovanni B. Man-on, Senior Trade-Industry Development Specialist of DTI-XII, shared relevant economic and industry insights, with representatives from DOLE-XII, PSA-XII, and DA-XII also providing supporting data and information. 

RTWPB-XII Chairperson Gatinao, who is also DOLE-XII Regional Director, emphasized the Board’s commitment to broadening stakeholder participation across the region.  

“Palalawakin namin ang consultation, even with targeted groups. Baba kami sa mga disadvantaged areas at barangays. Lalapit kami sa PESO, LGUs, at gagamitin natin ang mechanism ng RTIPC to feel the pulse of the people,” she said. 

“We will weigh everything, dahil lahat ito ay may bearing. Your Board will consider all relevant data to come up with a sound decision,” she added. 

RTWPB-XII clarified that no specific wage adjustment has been determined at this stage, as Board Members continue to listen, consult, and gather evidence from stakeholders.  

The review will consider factors such as the cost of living, inflation, purchasing power, productivity, employment, employers’ capacity to pay, and the overall economic condition of Region XII. 

RTWPB-XII will continue with succeeding consultations and public hearings in different areas of the region to arrive at a fair, evidence-based, and responsive wage policy that considers both the welfare of workers and the capacity of businesses to sustain employment. (Randy Oliver Legada)