President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is open to holding direct talks with labor groups, Malacañang said Friday, as calls mount for urgent action on wage increases.
“The President has always been open to any conversation that will benefit our workers,” said Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary Claire Castro.
“We just need to know how and when such a meeting can happen,” she added.
Castro made the statement in response to questions about labor groups urging Malacañang to engage in dialogue amid their clamor for higher wages and their call for the President to certify the wage hike bill as urgent.
“All stakeholders need to be consulted to see if employers can handle it and what is appropriate for the workers,” Castro said.
She also confirmed that wage boards across the country have already implemented the President’s directive to raise the minimum wage for 2025.
“All regions have complied with the President’s order to increase the salary or minimum wage through the Regional Tripartite Board,” she said.
“And now, at present, to study again in preparation for next year,” Castro added.
Castro acknowledged that while the increases may not meet all demands, the government is working within its means.
“It may not be as big as what some of our countrymen are asking for, but at least the President is doing what he can to give to the people and the workers,” she said.
Several labor organizations have expressed frustration over what they describe as piecemeal wage increases, urging the government to pass a legislated across-the-board hike that reflects the rising cost of living.
Economic officials, meanwhile, continue to stress the need for balance, warning that abrupt salary adjustments could affect employment and business viability, especially among small and medium enterprises.
