MANILA, Philippines — The Commission on Human Rights (CHR) on Tuesday said that the recent proposal of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board to raise the salaries of domestic workers, or “kasambahays”, in Central Visayas, would provide them with fairer compensation and more dignified working conditions.
“The Commission believes that an adequate wage increase for household workers is more imperative than ever, given the country’s socio-economic dynamics and cost of living,” the CHR said in its statement.
“Their rights as workers and dignity as human beings must always be recognized by all, particularly in how they enable and assist individuals and families in pursuing their goals and dreams. Although they may not always be apparent, kasambahays play an important role in both the development and functioning of our society,” it added.
The CHR also hoped that this would lead to efforts for more “equitable and just” salaries for all workers in the Philippines.
“Furthermore, the Commission also recognizes regional wage disparities, and we hope that this proactive effort will be a tangible step toward ensuring a more equitable and just salary for Filipino workers, not just in certain regions, but in the entire Philippines,” it said.