Gawa Urges Substantial Minimum Wage Hike in Western Visayas

The General Alliance of Workers Association (Gawa) in Negros Occidental has urged the Regional Wage Board in Western Visayas for a substantial increase in the private sector's minimum wage. The appeal comes as workers' purchasing power has been eroded by inflation, with wages failing to keep pace with rising costs of goods and services.

Gawa secretary general Wennie Sancho submitted a manifestation position paper on October 14, 2025, demanding an increase in the minimum wage to reflect the current cost of living in Western Visayas. Sancho believes a wage adjustment is necessary to alleviate the struggles of workers in the region due to the increased cost of living. Gawa is hopeful that Regional Wage Board chairperson Sixto Rodriguez will act on their request. Gawa is willing to work together with employers to find a solution that benefits both workers and employers. The association also demands regular review and adjustment of wages to keep pace with inflation and economic conditions. Additionally, Gawa requests indexation of wages to ensure automatic adjustment based on changes in the cost of living.

Gawa's appeal for a substantial increase in the minimum wage in Western Visayas highlights the challenges faced by workers in the region due to inflation. With wages not keeping pace with rising costs, Gawa hopes that the Regional Wage Board will consider their request and work with them to find a solution that benefits both workers and employers.