Senator Risa Hontiveros is urging both chambers of Congress to act swiftly on the proposed minimum wage hike, saying that the long-overdue measure must not be left unresolved as the 19th Congress nears its end.
“We are down to the wire. Dalawang sesyon na lang ang nalalabi sa 19th Congress at dapat talakayin na ang batas na magbibigay ng umento sa sahod ng minimum wage workers sa pribadong sektor. Huwag natin silang kalimutan,” said Hontiveros.
Last week, the House of Representatives approved House Bill No. 11376, which proposes a P200 daily wage increase for private sector workers.
The Senate had earlier passed its version, calling for a P100 increase. Hontiveros co-sponsored the Senate bill, ensuring it covers contractual, subcontractual, and agency-hired workers.
The senator stressed the need to immediately convene a bicameral conference committee to reconcile the two versions.
She also urged her fellow senators, particularly the Senate leadership, to act quickly.
“Pareho namang sumasang-ayon ang Kamara at Senado na oras na para magbigay ng umento sa sahod. Dapat nang mag-convene ng bicameral conference committee para pag-isahin ang magkaibang bersyon. Para agaran na rin itong maipadala sa Malacanang at maisabatas na,” according to her.
Hontiveros noted that even amid political issues like impeachment talks, the wage hike must remain a priority, as many workers urgently need relief.
“Ang dagdag sahod ay pagkain sa mesa, pambili ng gamit eskwela para sa anak, pamasahe para makapasok sa trabaho. Pakinggan natin ang boses ng manggagawa na patuloy na nakikipagbuno sa mataas na presyo ng bilihin, pamasahe, at serbisyo,” she explained.IMT
