DOLE proposes 3-month wage subsidy amid rising fuel prices

FILE PHOTO: Commuters are back on the road to go to their respective work places with the lowering of the restrictions to Alert Level 1 in Metro Manila. INQUIRER/RICHARD A. REYES

MANILA, Philippines — With the rising prices on fuel products, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) is proposing a wage subsidy worth P24 billion which will benefit one million workers.

DOLE Assistant Secretary Dominique Tutay said this subsidy will run for three months, starting April until June 2022.

Tutay said the agency recognizes the clamor for minimum wage increase due to the rising fuel prices but it also supports the government’s continued economic recovery efforts.

“With the current wages now extremely inadequate particularly for the minimum wage earners and the government’s economic recovery in full swing, subsidies may be extended to vulnerable workers, particularly those most severely affected by fuel prices and its domino effect on prices in food and basic goods and services,” she said.

“At this time, given the indirect impact of global tension to the Philippine economy, nakikita natin na ang wage subsidy ay importante pa rin sa manggagawang Pilipino,” Tutay added.

The DOLE said it has asked President Rodrigo Duterte’s approval of the proposal.

Tutay assured that micro, small and medium enterprises or MSMEs that are only reopening with the easing of pandemic restrictions will be given a “breathing space” for recovery and growth within the three-month period where the subsidy will be given to workers.

The DOLE also asked for the re-appointment of stakeholder representatives in NWPC and regional wage boards.

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