Marcos open to having dialogue with labor groups over wage hike

Malacañang said Friday that President Ferdinand ''Bongbong'' Marcos Jr. is open to having a dialogue with labor groups as regards the appeal for wage hike.

''Ang Pangulo po ay lagi pong bukas sa anuman pong diskusyon para po sa ikabubuti ng mga manggagawa at hindi po iyan isinasara iyong pintuan,'' Palace Press Officer Undersecretary Atty. Claire Castro said at a briefing.

(The President is always open to any discussion to improve the welfare of workers. We're not closing doors.)

''Kailangan lang din po siguro natin na masabi sa Pangulo kung papaano, kailan, para po magkaroon sila ng magandang pag-uusap,'' he added.

(We just need to inform the President how, when, so that we will have a good discussion.)

On Labor Day, Marcos underscored the need to study wage hike as this has an impact on the country's economy.

Marcos said the government hears the call of workers for better wages, saying that their concerns are being addressed through the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards

Marcos emphasized that his administration stands firm in its commitment ''to protecting and advancing workers’ welfare while promoting inclusive economic development.''

The review of the minimum wage rates in some regions is set to start this month, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), noting that this was upon the order of the President.

The DOLE said it is ready to implement the P200 legislated wage hike if Congress passes the measure and Marcos approves it. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News