NWPC eases rules on wage orders exemption

MANILA, Philippines - The National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) has relaxed the rules on exemption from wage adjustments and cost-of-living allowances in calamity-hit areas.

Labor Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz said yesterday the NWPC approved Resolution No. 1 Series of 2014, which spells out the rules on exemption from wage orders issued by the Regional Tripartite Wage and Productivity Boards (RTWPB). It amends NWCP Guidelines No. 2 Series of 2007.

Baldoz noted that the amendments liberalize the process and requirements for calamity-affected enterprises to qualify for exemption.

Under the resolution, “establishments adversely affected by natural and human-induced disasters that have sustained property damage of at least 50 percent and whose recovery will exceed one year may now claim for exemption for a longer period from compliance with prescribed wage increases/cost-of-living allowances granted by RTWPBs.”

“Natural and human-induced disasters affect business operations and results in establishments experiencing temporary difficulties due to financial losses which necessitate government to step in and extend urgent assistance,” Baldoz said.