TRABAHO Partylist expressed its support for the recent ₱200 daily allowance increase for military personnel, marking the first such adjustment in a decade.

While acknowledging this development, Trabaho emphasized the need for similar wage enhancements for civilian workers, particularly the P200 daily minimum wage increase approved by the House of Representatives on second reading which can affect approximately five million minimum wage earners nationwide.

Atty. Mitchell-David L. Espiritu, spokesperson for Trabaho, stated that while the military allowance hike is a positive step, it underscores the urgency to address wage disparities affecting other sectors. He highlighted the importance of implementing a “living wage” system that ensures workers can meet their basic needs, rather than relying solely on minimum wage standards.

For a balanced approach, Atty. Espiritu suggested that non-wage benefits, such as transportation and medical allowances, can provide immediate relief to workers without imposing significant financial burdens on businesses.

The pro-worker group also called for a review of the current provincial wage rates to ensure they reflect the cost of living in various regions. Espiritu emphasized that wage reforms should not be seen as adversarial but as collaborative efforts between employers and employees to uplift the standard of living across the country.

Trabaho urged policymakers to prioritize comprehensive wage reforms that consider both the welfare of workers and the sustainability of businesses.

AUTHOR PROFILE

People's Tonight