The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) said Monday it has begun consultations in several regions on possible wage adjustments, even as a new pay hike in Metro Manila has already taken effect.

Speaking on DZRH’s Damdaming Bayan, Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino said discussions are ongoing in Central Visayas, Central Luzon, and CALABARZON as part of the government’s tripartite wage-setting process.

Tolentino said the consultations bring together representatives from labor groups, employers and the government under Republic Act No. 6727, or the Wage Rationalization Act, to determine region-specific wage increases.

“Nag-uusap ang pribadong sektor, ang mga manggagawa at ang pamahalaan para magkaroon tayo ng sahod na kahit papaano ay makapanlaban man lang sa pagtaas ng bilihin,” he said, citing continued increases in electricity and fuel prices that affect workers’ purchasing power.

The regional consultations come as the first tranche of an approved ₱85 daily wage increase in the National Capital Region took effect on July 25, with ₱60 already implemented. The remaining adjustment is scheduled for January 20, 2027.

Tolentino said the government aims to balance the interests of workers and employers through the consultations, ensuring that any wage adjustments are sustainable for businesses while providing relief to employees.

He added that DOLE is also pushing for stronger social protection for workers, including improved access to insurance and Social Security System (SSS) benefits, alongside wage reforms.

Watch the full interview below: