Malacañang expressed hope for a win-win solution for both workers and business owners following a court order temporarily stopping the initial tranche of the ₱85 daily minimum wage increase in Metro Manila.
Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro emphasized the importance of balancing the needs of both sectors to prevent further complications.
”Mas maganda po talaga na maging balanse ang pagtingin dito para hindi magkaroon ng mas malalim na problema o suliranin para both parties, ang employees and employers, ay magkaroon ng win-win solution sa issue na ito,” Castro stated during a press briefing on Friday.
Despite the temporary restraining order (TRO) issued by a local court, Castro reassured Metro Manila workers that the administration remains committed to fighting for proper compensation.
Reaffirming Acting Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino’s stance, she noted that the legal setback is not the end of the line.
”Ayon nga po kay Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino, tayo ay susunod sa korte kung ano pinag-uutos ng korte, pero hindi pa po dito natatapos ang laban,” Castro said. “Ilalaban po kung ano po ang nakikita ng pamahalaan na nararapat sa ating mga magagawa.”
Castro added that while the government champions workers’ rights, it will also consider the private sector’s perspectives to reach a fair compromise.
”Pero pakikinggan din po ng pamahalaan kung ano po ang hinaing ng mga negosyante,” she added.
The court order halted the initial ₱60 wage increase scheduled to take effect on July 25, while the remaining ₱25 second tranche is slated for implementation in January next year.