New Minimum Wage Now in Effect Across Eastern Visayas

Posted on June 6, 2026 at 12:25 pm

TACLOBAN CITY — Thousands of private sector workers in Eastern Visayas are now taking home higher pay after the second tranche of the region’s wage increase took effect on June 1.

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB-8) said workers covered by Wage Order No. RB VIII-25 received an additional P18 increase in their daily wages, completing the total P35 wage hike approved last year.

With the latest adjustment, the minimum daily wage for workers in the non-agricultural sector and those employed in service and retail establishments with more than 10 workers has increased to P470.

Workers in service and retail establishments with one to 10 employees, as well as those in the agriculture, cottage, and handicraft sectors, are now entitled to a daily minimum wage of P440.

The wage increase was rolled out in two stages. The first P17 increase took effect on Dec. 8, 2025, while the remaining P18 increase was implemented on June 1.

RTWPB-8 urged employers across the region to comply with the new wage rates and ensure that workers receive the correct pay.

“The RTWPB-8 encourages all covered employers to ensure compliance with the new wage rates and all workers to be informed of their rights under the wage order,” the board said.

Labor officials said the wage adjustment was approved to help workers cope with rising living costs while taking into account the capacity of businesses to absorb the increase.

The new rates cover thousands of workers across Eastern Visayas, particularly those employed in small businesses, service establishments, and the agricultural sector.

Photo by: Rolly Magallanes