DOLE allows MSMEs to apply for wage hike exemption

Micro and small enterprises, especially those affected by the pandemic, may apply for wage hike exemption, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) 3 (Central Luzon) said in a report by Philippine News Agency.

DOLE-3 Director Geraldine Panlilio said establishments with not more than 10 workers and those affected by natural calamities and/or human-induced disasters, including the health crisis, may apply for wage hike exemption under the Omnibus Rules on Minimum Wage Determination.

“Yun lamang talagang micro and small enterprises with less than 10 employees ang pwedeng mag-apply at yung lang talagang naapektuhan ng calamities. Meron naman talagang exemption for those who are qualified (Only those micro and small enterprises with less than 10 employees can apply and those affected by calamities. There is really an exemption for those who are qualified),” Panlilio said in a regional television interview.

She said businesses in the retail/service sector employing not more than 10 workers may submit their application for exemption, including their affidavit of the undertaking and certified true copy of their business permit, to the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) having jurisdiction over their workplace not later than 75 days from the date of publication of the wage order.

On the other hand, micro and small enterprises shall submit their affidavit stating the impact of the pandemic on their business operation, as well as audited financial statements for the past two years stamped received by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.

The RTWPB has concluded public hearings on minimum wage adjustment for private-sector workers and "kasambahay" or domestic workers in Central Luzon.

After these, the body will deliberate on the petition for wages, considering all concerns raised.

The prevailing daily minimum wage rates in Central Luzon (except Aurora province) range from PHP395 to PHP420, depending on the number of employees and sector.

In Aurora, the daily minimum wage rates range from PHP304 to PHP369.