The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du attended the Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Region 7 Wage Hike Public Hearing.
The wage hike hearing was held at Bethel Guest House, provided a platform for stakeholders to discuss and provide inputs on the proposed wage adjustments for workers in the region. NOCCI officers, Trustees, and members attended the hearing, actively engaging in the discussions and was able to convince the labor unions to agree to a ₱20 / day wage hike.
NOCCI Advocates for Balanced Wage Hike at Region 7 Public Hearing
The Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), under the leadership of President Edward Du, actively participated in the Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Region 7 Wage Hike Public Hearing. Held at Bethel Guest House, the hearing served as a vital platform for stakeholders to deliberate on proposed wage adjustments and their implications for businesses and workers across the region.
NOCCI officers, Trustees, and members joined representatives from labor unions, business groups, and government agencies to ensure a balanced outcome that supports economic growth while addressing the needs of workers.
Collaborative Dialogue for Sustainable Solutions
The hearing underscored the importance of dialogue in achieving a fair resolution to wage concerns. President Du emphasized NOCCI’s commitment to fostering a business climate that values both worker welfare and economic sustainability.
During the discussions, NOCCI representatives highlighted the challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of the region’s economy. They stressed the need for incremental wage increases to prevent undue strain on businesses while still providing meaningful benefits to workers.
Consensus Reached on ₱20/Day Wage Increase
After a series of constructive exchanges, labor unions, business representatives, and government officials reached a consensus to implement a ₱20 per day wage increase. This agreement represents a balanced approach that takes into account the rising cost of living for workers while ensuring that businesses, especially SMEs, can remain competitive and sustainable.
President Du commended the labor unions for their openness to dialogue and understanding of the economic realities faced by businesses. He noted that the ₱20/day increase is a testament to the shared commitment of all stakeholders to achieve equitable growth for the region.
Implications for the Region
The approved wage adjustment is expected to positively impact the livelihoods of workers in Region 7, enhancing their purchasing power and contributing to local economic activity. For businesses, the measured increase provides an opportunity to retain skilled workers while maintaining financial stability.
NOCCI continues to advocate for policies that promote long-term economic development. The organization is optimistic that this agreement will serve as a model for future collaborations between labor, business, and government sectors.
A Commitment to Economic Balance
As the region moves forward, NOCCI remains dedicated to fostering an environment where businesses and workers thrive together. The chamber plans to work closely with its members to implement the wage adjustment effectively while advocating for additional programs to enhance productivity and competitiveness. The RTWPB Region 7 Wage Hike Public Hearing highlights the power of collaboration in addressing critical economic issues. With NOCCI’s active involvement, the ₱20/day wage increase strikes a balance that supports workers’ welfare and ensures the sustainability of businesses. This outcome reflects the chamber’s commitment to fostering a resilient and inclusive economy for Negros Oriental and the region as a whole.
