Koronadal city, South Cotabato — The salary increase for employees in the private sector has been described as “very reasonable and appropriate,” according to South Cotabato Governor Reynaldo S. Tamayo Jr., following the approval of a new wage order granting a daily minimum wage hike in Region XII.
Governor Tamayo made the statement in support of the new Wage Order No. RB XII-25, which mandates an increase of ₱30 to ₱33 per day for private sector workers across the region. The new wage rates are set to take effect on November 2, 2025.
According to Governor Tamayo, the salary adjustment is a welcome development for employees who continue to play a vital role in the growth of the local economy.
He emphasized that as private companies expand and benefit from regional development, their workers should also share in the gains.
“The salary increase is very reasonable and appropriate. Our private sector employees deserve to benefit from the progress of the companies they help build,” Governor Tamayo said.
The governor recognized the labor sector as, “the backbone of our local industries, and this increase recognizes their hard work and contribution to our province’s development.”
Governor Tamayo underscored that wage adjustments are not only a form of compensation but also an investment in human capital.
He noted that better compensation encourages productivity, loyalty, and improved living standards, which, in turn, stimulate local economic activity.
He also pointed out that the timing of the wage increase is aligned with the ongoing economic recovery and growth of the region, following challenges in recent years brought by inflation and rising costs of living.
“We have to ensure that our economic growth is inclusive. This wage hike will help our workers cope with daily expenses and strengthen purchasing power, which will also benefit local businesses,” Tamayo added.
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) XII approved the new wage order after conducting a series of consultations and public hearings with representatives from labor, management, and government sectors.
Under the new wage structure, the increase will apply to workers in both agricultural and non-agricultural establishments across Region XII, which includes the provinces of South Cotabato, Cotabato, Sultan Kudarat, and Sarangani, as well as General Santos City.
The wage hike aims to address the rising cost of living while maintaining a balance that ensures business sustainability. Employers are expected to comply with the new rates once the order takes effect next month.
Local labor groups have welcomed the announcement, describing the increase as a modest but meaningful step toward fairer compensation. Some business owners have also expressed support, acknowledging that improved wages can lead to better employee morale and productivity.
Governor Tamayo expressed optimism that this policy will strengthen relationships between employers and employees and foster a more inclusive business environment in South Cotabato.
“Our goal is shared prosperity,” Tamayo concluded. “When both workers and employers thrive, our entire province moves forward together.”
The new wage order, he said, reflects the provincial government’s continuing commitment to promoting equitable growth and improving the quality of life for all South Cotabateños.
