An ₱800 increase in the monthly minimum wage for domestic workers in the National Capital Region (NCR) was approved by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB).

According to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), it was raised from ₱7,000 to ₱7,800.

The new rate will take effect on February 7, following the publication of Wage Order No. NCR-DW-06.

DOLE said the wage hike covers all domestic workers in Metro Manila, whether directly employed by households or hired through licensed private employment agencies (PEAs).

The order applies to general house helpers, nannies, cooks, gardeners, laundry staff, and any worker performing regular domestic tasks in a home. Both live-in and live-out arrangements are included.

However, the wage increase does not apply to service providers, family drivers, or individuals performing occasional or sporadic domestic work.

"In the case of hiring or contracting of domestic workers services through licensed private employment agencies (PEAs), the wage rate prescribed in this order shall be borne by the principals or clients of the PEAs and the contract shall be deemed amended accordingly," the wage order reads.

“In the event that the principals or clients fail to pay [the] prescribed wage rate, the PEAs shall be jointly and severally liable with their principals or clients,” it said.

The DOLE emphasized that the wage adjustment is mandatory for all households in the NCR and aims to ensure fair compensation for domestic workers who play a vital role in Filipino households.