A sweeping change to the nation’s wage system is gaining traction in the House, with 160 legislators now backing a bill to establish a single, national minimum wage.
Representative Elijah R. San Fernando announced the growing support, emphasizing the bill’s aim to dismantle the current region-based system. This system has long faced criticism for its sluggish response to the rising cost of living, leaving many workers struggling to make ends meet.
House Bill No. 8081 proposes setting the initial national minimum wage at the level of the highest currently mandated regional rate. This isn’t a sudden shift, but a carefully planned transition, garnering support from across the political spectrum, including Speaker Faustino Dy III.
The proposed legislation outlines a three-year phase-in period designed to gradually align all regional wages with the new national standard. The first year will address 30% of the wage gap, followed by 35% in the second, and the remaining 35% in the third year.
Once fully implemented, every region will operate under the same minimum wage floor, providing a consistent standard of living for workers nationwide. Importantly, the bill preserves the right of workers to negotiate wages exceeding the minimum, and establishes a national commission for annual rate reviews.
Representative San Fernando is now calling on House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander A. Marcos III to prioritize the bill for a second reading. He believes the current momentum represents a unique opportunity to deliver a significant win for working families.
The urgency to pass this bill before May is palpable, as legislators recognize the powerful message it would send – a clear demonstration of their commitment to supporting the nation’s workforce. The representative is confident they have both the congressional numbers and public backing to succeed.
