By JOEL PORTUGAL
The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga recently concluded a series of insightful sessions on Wage Distortion under the banner of “Usapang 2Ps: Pasahod at Produktibo” across different areas of Caraga.
The Usapang 2Ps activity convened representatives from diverse sectors, including business owners, labor groups, and stakeholders, serving as a platform for discussing wage and productivity programs. It particularly highlighted the issue of wage distortions and proposed solutions to address challenges faced by both employers and employees.
These activities aimed to foster communication and collaboration among stakeholders, employees, and partner agencies to address wage-related concerns such as distortion, thereby promoting fair compensation practices in the private sector. A total of 329 MSMEs participated in the 2Ps caravan from various provinces of Caraga.
Commencing on January 12, 2024, the caravan included 70 MSMEs from Cabadbaran City, followed by 40 establishments from Butuan City on January 19, 2024, and 63 firms from Bislig City on January 26, 2024. In February, forty-eight establishments from Surigao City joined on February 8, 2024, followed by 47 from San Francisco, Agusan del Sur, and 61 firms from Tandag City on February 22-23, 2024, respectively.
One of the key highlights of the Usapang 2Ps activity was its focus on the impact of Wage Distortion on the wage structure following the issuance of new Wage Orders. Correcting Wage Distortion is crucial to preventing conflicts among workers due to its effects. The discussions presented various suggested formulas for companies to consider as remedies, allowing them to apply what is most suitable to their respective situations.
Earl D. Dela Victoria, Board Secretary VI, in his message, committed to providing technical assistance to establishments on productivity trainings, including addressing wage-related issues such as distortion. He encouraged employers and workers to communicate and negotiate in correcting wage distortion to maintain positive and harmonious working relationships. He added, “We are very optimistic that through these initiatives, firms may create a conducive environment where both employers and employees can thrive, ultimately contributing to the overall economic development of Caraga.”
Addressing and correcting Wage Distortion is essential for maintaining a balanced and harmonious workplace. The commitment demonstrated by RTWPB Caraga underscores the importance of open communication and proactive measures in creating a labor landscape that is not only productive but also fair and reasonable for the well-being of workers in general.
