January 23Jan 23 File photo for reference onlyDomestic workers in Metro Manila are set to receive an additional P800 to their monthly pay starting February 7. This adjustment arises from a new regional wage order issued by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). The monthly minimum wage for these workers in the National Capital Region will rise from P7,000 to P7,800.The increase is part of Wage Order No. NCR-DW-06 approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB). It applies to all domestic workers, regardless of whether they are hired directly by families or through licensed private employment agencies (PEAs). For those employed through PEAs, household principals or clients are required to shoulder the prescribed wage.The wage order stipulates that employment contracts involving a PEA will be automatically updated to include this increase, with PEAs and household employers both being liable for compliance. The RTWPB has mandated that all households in Metro Manila adhere to this wage hike. This decision follows an increase last year of P50 in the daily minimum wage aimed at addressing inflation and cost-of-living increases.Experts and stakeholders view the wage adjustment as crucial for assisting domestic workers in dealing with the climbing expenses in the capital region. While intended to support household workers economically, compliance by private employers and PEAs will remain under scrutiny to ensure the expected benefits reach all intended recipients.Looking forward, the DOLE and local agencies will monitor the implementation of this wage increase, assessing its effectiveness in improving the financial conditions of domestic workers. Future evaluations of wage orders may continue as living costs evolve, maintaining regular income adjustments for the sector, reported Manila Bulletin.Key TakeawaysDomestic worker wages in Metro Manila increase to P7,800 starting February 7.Wage Order No. NCR-DW-06 mandates this adjustment for all households.Compliance expected from both private employers and employment agencies.Related StoriesThai Hotels Challenge Minimum Wage Hike in CourtDOLE Advocates Balanced Approach to Wage Hike Proposals for Economic Stability Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2026-01-23
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