The Philippine Statistics Authority – Cordillera Administrative Region (PSA-CAR) took part in the dissemination of socio-economic statistics to various employers and employees in a series of public hearing for the adjustment of the minimum wage in the region conducted in various dates in September and October 2023. This activity was an initiative of the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board (RTWPB), with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) holding chairmanship.
Senior Statistical Specialist Betina Joy V. Bermillo, presented data on consumer price index and inflation, regional and provincial economic performances, employment and labor productivity, and poverty indicators. This information is provided to encourage the participants in coming up with informed decisions on the potential adjustment of the prevailing minimum wage in the region, both for the employees in the private sector and domestic workers.
The series of public hearings commenced on the following dates: September 15, 2023 in Bangued, Abra; September 19, 2023 in Luna, Apayao; September 20, 2023 in Tabuk City, Kalinga. The remaining areas in the region conducted their respective public consultations on the subsequent dates: October 4, 2023 in Lagawe, Ifugao; October 5, 2023 in Bontoc, Mountain Province; and October 10, 2023 in Baguio City and Benguet with Domestic Workers in the morning and private employment sector in the afternoon.
Chief Statistical Specialist Jerry G. Santos presented the statistics on behalf of PSA-CAR during the public consultation in Mountain Province. In addition, resource persons from Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the concerned Local Government Units (LGU) also presented relevant information and statistics.
The statistical indicators presented, together with the outputs from the workshop gathered from all provinces will serve as valuable inputs critical in determining the need in adjusting the current minimum wage in the Cordillera, the recommended adjusted rate, and the crafting of new wage memorandum order in the region.
(SGD)
VILLAFE P. ALIBUYOG
Regional Director
