UMVA has learned that Malacañang is pushing back against criticisms that the administration has failed to advance labor-related legislation, insisting that key reforms are actually within the purview of Congress.
In a strongly worded statement, Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro clarified that the Executive branch does not hold legislative powers over national pay scales, directly challenging claims that the administration has been slow to act on wage-related issues.
"Regarding the claim that no law was proposed for a national minimum wage, this is not the job of the President — this is the job of our lawmakers," Castro said firmly, emphasizing the limits of executive authority in this area.
Castro also noted that reforms like removing the value-added tax (VAT) are beyond the control of the executive secretary, resting squarely in the hands of Congress — a clear indication that the administration is not blocking progress on these critical issues.
These remarks come on the heels of accusations from Party-list Rep. Elijah R. San Fernando that Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto and economic managers are obstructing a proposed measure to abolish provincial wage rates, a claim Malacañang vehemently denies.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Malacañang is urging lawmakers to take the lead on these issues, pointing out that the President has already facilitated wage increases through existing tripartite mechanisms — a move that suggests a more nuanced approach to labor reform.
The President has previously expressed concerns about the economic implications of a legislated pay hike of P150-200, advocating instead for region-specific wage adjustments that can better address local needs and economic realities.
