Metro Manila P85 Wage Increase Suspended as DOLE Respects Court Order

 

Metro Manila Wage Hike Put on Hold as Court Reviews P85 Daily Increase

The implementation of the P85 daily minimum wage increase in Metro Manila has been temporarily suspended following a court order, delaying the expected financial relief for thousands of workers across the region.

The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) confirmed that it will comply with the directive while the legal challenge against the wage adjustment undergoes judicial review. Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino acknowledged the impact of the decision on employees but emphasized that government agencies must respect the authority of the courts.

The wage adjustment, which took effect on July 25, was challenged by Readycon Trading and Construction Corp. and R-11 Builders Inc. through a petition questioning its validity. In response, a Pasig court issued a status quo ante order, preventing the immediate enforcement of the increase until the case is assigned to the proper court for further proceedings.

With the order in place, workers in Metro Manila will temporarily return to the previous wage structure while the legal dispute remains unresolved. The court’s action means the promised increase will not yet be reflected in employees’ pay until a final determination is made.

DOLE said it will allow the judiciary to explain the basis of the ruling, noting that the department remains committed to fulfilling its responsibility of protecting workers’ rights within the boundaries of existing laws.

The suspension comes amid concerns from some business groups that the wage adjustment could increase operating costs and potentially lead to workforce reductions. Employers had earlier raised concerns that the higher labor expenses might affect business sustainability.

For workers, the court’s decision represents a delay in receiving additional income intended to help address rising living expenses. The final outcome of the case will determine whether the wage increase will eventually proceed or undergo further review.