Speaker Dy pushes for fast-tracked national wage reform, seeks to abolish regional boards

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III has called for the expedited passage of a major overhaul of the country’s wage system, aiming to establish a single national minimum wage and eliminate the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards.

The consolidated measure merges several proposals currently pending before the Committee on Labor and Employment, authored by lawmakers from different parties. This broad support indicates growing momentum for a nationwide restructuring of wage-setting.

On February 24, Dy met with principal bill authors and leaders of major labor organizations, including the Federation of Free Workers and other national unions, to align on the reform framework. He expressed gratitude to labor representatives for sharing their experiences and perspectives.

“I fought for higher wages during my time as Governor of Isabela,” Dy said. “We owe our workers a fair and unified wage system, and the House will act on this.”

Following the meeting, Dy instructed that the consolidated bill be included in the plenary agenda for discussion next week, committing the House to immediate action with the goal of passing the measure by Labor Day.

Under the proposal, wage-setting authority would transfer to the National Wages and Productivity Commission, replacing the current regional boards. The reform outlines a phased approach, initially setting the national minimum wage at no less than the prevailing rate in the National Capital Region, while providing transition support to help affected sectors adjust.

If enacted, the measure would reduce long-standing regional wage disparities and establish a clear national wage floor for workers nationwide. With plenary debate scheduled for next week and a Labor Day target in sight, Dy has signaled that comprehensive wage reform is moving forward with urgency.