The P85 NCR wage hike went through a formal vote and legal process, according to Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) Secretary Francis Tolentino.

The statement was made amid the call from several groups to suspend the wage hike.

Following the issuance of the wage order, concerns have been raised regarding the potential heavy effect to the economy and businesses once the wage hike for minimum wage earners takes effect.

However, Secretary Tolentino stated that the wage increase underwent research, legal processes, and extensive consultations among key stakeholders before the approval. He noted that discussions were conducted between the government, employers, and employee sectors represented by key institutions or groups.

“The government was represented by NEDA, DepDev and the DTI. Ang employers ay yung mga malalaking grupo, yung mga ECOP, PCCI. Ganon din yung employees ay yung malalaking grupo din,” he said

The Secretary emphasized that while the expenses for some businesses will rise, especially the medium-sized enterprises, it was shown to their research that the economic impact will remain minimal. The DOLE also stressed that the wage board carefully evaluated the economic indicators, including inflation, to ensure that employers can afford the hike while maintaining economic stability before the approval.

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