RTWPB-7 starts review of wage for househelps

CEBU, Philippines — The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Central Visayas is checking on the employers’ compliance with the wage order for house helpers.

RTWPB-7 and Department of Labor and Employment-7 Regional Director Atty. Johson G. Cañete said they have started the review by conducting random surveys among the employers in Cebu, Bohol, and Negros Oriental.

 “We started conducting the survey since the last quarter of 2018 and with that, we hope to collect substantial data regarding the status of the household helpers in the region,” Cañete said.

The survey is aimed at gathering data on the number of household helpers receiving the minimum wage and those who were actually covered by social welfare benefits like Social Security System, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG.

 Under the Kasambahay Law, househelps are entitled to standard minimum wage, 13th month pay, five days service incentive leave, and one rest day per week.

 RTWPB-7 Board Secretary Grace G. Carreon said the issue will be the main agenda during the scheduled board meeting this month.

“We are planning to hold public consultations regarding this move and we are eyeing on Dumaguete City as our first stop although the Board has not yet agreed on the final date,” she said. — FPL (FREEMAN)