Business chamber struggles with wage increase in NegOr
The Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board in Central Visayas has scheduled public hearings for the adjustment of minimum wage, with the hearings taking place in Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
At these hearings, the sector of employers, led by the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), proposed an across-the-board increase of PHP 1,200. However, Edward Du, the president of NOCCI, has expressed opposition to this proposal.
According to Du, who spoke to the Philippine News Agency on Friday, the business sector does not agree with another round of wage adjustment this year if the prices of goods increase. This stance is based on the data from the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA), which shows negative inflation rates for the province during the second quarter of 2025. Specifically, the inflation rates for April, May, and June are -0.1%, -0.2%, and -1.0% respectively.
Du also mentioned that he presented these figures during a minimum wage public hearing on Thursday. It's important to note that Du was not reported as being appointed or elected as the leader of the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Board for Central Visayas. Instead, he spoke publicly in his capacity as NOCCI president.
In light of these negative inflation rates, the NOCCI has petitioned against an increase in salaries for this year. This decision was made in an effort to maintain the competitiveness of businesses in the region and to prevent further financial strain on employers and the economy as a whole.
The outcome of the public hearings and the decision regarding the minimum wage adjustment in Negros Oriental and Siquijor are yet to be determined. However, the NOCCI's stance against a wage increase due to ongoing negative inflation is a significant factor in the discussions.
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