00:00With the newly inflated rates for domestic helpers in the National Capital Region in effect,
00:05it comes as no surprise that neighboring region to the south, the Calabarzon has taken the first
00:10step of pursuing the identical path with consultations by the Regional Tripartite
00:16Wages and Productivity Board and a review of existing pay rates. Philippine Information
00:21Agency, Calabarzon Correspondent Fred Moore-Cavan sheds more light in this report.
00:27Domestic workers in the Calabarzon region may soon receive a wage increase as the
00:33Wage Board consults with workers and employers to assess the need for adjustments to current rates.
00:57At present, the highest minimum wage for domestic workers in Calabarzon
01:01is six thousand pesos set by a wage order issued in February last year.
01:06The board will review whether it is appropriate to set another round of increase based on the
01:10needs of domestic workers, the employer's capacity to pay and the current socioeconomic conditions
01:16in Calabarzon. Worker groups are calling for an increase to eight thousand pesos
01:21to help them cope with rising expenses.
01:27Some domestic workers like Vivian Posadas are also advocating for expanded benefits,
01:48including health care coverage and retirement allowances.
01:57Another public hearing is set in Bacor City, Cavite on January 24. The board will then
02:14deliberate on any adjustments to the minimum wage which is expected to be released next month.
02:20Domestic workers in Rizal are optimistic that the government will address their call
02:24for a wage increase and expanded benefits.
