Senate Bill No. 2534

100 pesos Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act of 2024

In a bid to improve the living standards of Filipino workers, lawmakers have introduced the "100 pesos Daily Minimum Wage Increase Act of 2024". This significant legislative proposal mandates a 100 pesos daily wage hike for all minimum wage workers in the private sector, encompassing contractual and agricultural laborers. The Act, which underscores the State's commitment to providing a humane standard of living and social justice, aims to ensure that workers receive a fair share of production fruits and a living wage. Upon enactment, this wage increase will be uniformly applied across all employment statuses.

A key provision addresses wage distortion resulting from the increase, requiring employers and unions, or employees in non-unionized settings, to negotiate adjustments in line with the Labor Code of the Philippines. Previous wage increments cannot offset this new mandate unless explicitly included in collective bargaining agreements. Importantly, the Act safeguards existing benefits and allowances from being diminished. To ensure compliance, the Department of Labor and Employment is tasked with inspecting company payrolls and financial records at any time, accompanied by union representatives or workers' representatives in non-unionized firms. Penalties for non-compliance are stringent, including fines ranging from 50,000 pesos to 100,000 pesos, imprisonment of two to four years, or both. Corporate officers may face personal liability, and employers must pay double the unpaid benefits to affected workers. Non-compliance may also result in non-renewal of business permits. The Act mandates that any uncertainties in implementation or interpretation be resolved in favor of labor, and the Secretary of Labor and Employment is to issue necessary rules for effective enforcement. Should any part of the Act be ruled unconstitutional, the remaining provisions will continue to be in force. This legislative move is a strong signal of the government's dedication to enhancing the economic security and well-being of Filipino workers, ensuring that their right to a decent and just wage is upheld."

Senate of the Philippines

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