The Future of Labor: A Call to Action This title effectively conveys the sense of urgency and importance of addressing labor issues in the Philippines. It also hints at the idea that change needs to happen soon, emphasizing the need for a call to action from stakeholders.

Here's a polished and professional version of the blog post:The Future of Labor: A Call to ActionAs labor groups continue to urge prompt action on wage hike measures, it is essential to examine the devastating impact of economic disparities on Filipino workers' lives. The urgency cannot be overstated; swift action is necessary to alleviate the suffering of ordinary citizens.A Joint Plea for Urgent AttentionThe Trade Union Congress of the Philippines (TUCP), Federation of Free Workers, and Sentro ng mga Nagkakaisa at Progresibong Manggagawa have issued a joint statement urging President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to certify House Bill 7871 as urgent and temporarily suspend excise taxes on petroleum products to mitigate the impact of inflation. The groups emphasize that there is no other reprieve in sight, with energy price spikes eroding workers' meager salaries and public utility vehicle drivers' take-home pay.The Human CostA December 2024 Social Weather Station survey reveals a staggering 63 percent or 17.4 million families consider themselves poor, the highest in 21 years. The numbers are alarming, with 10.2 percent being near poor and 11 percent borderline poor. This crisis demands immediate attention to prevent further encroachment of economic disparities.The Reality on the GroundTUCP Vice President Luis Corral poignantly summarizes the situation: "Everything is going up — food prices, utility bills, SSS contributions, and now even the train fare — everything except workers' wages." The sentiment resonates with millions of Filipinos struggling to make ends meet.A Long-Overdue SolutionHouse Bill 7871, authored by TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza, has been pending before the House Labor Committee for over eight months. The proposed measure aims to mandate a P150 daily wage hike, which is long overdue considering the country's economic growth.A Delicate BalanceSpeaker Martin Romualdez vows to expedite deliberations on the proposed wage hike while ensuring that businesses, particularly micro, small, and medium enterprises, are supported during this transition. This balancing act requires careful consideration of stakeholders' concerns, including labor groups, employers, and economists.The Time for ChangeThe last approved legislated wage hike in the country was Republic Act 6727, or the Wage Rationalization Act, which raised the national minimum wage from P64 to P89 in 1989. It's high time for a new, comprehensive solution to address the encroachment of economic disparities and ensure that workers' wages keep pace with inflation.Beyond 2025: A Call to ActionAs we look beyond 2025, it is essential to recognize the critical role labor plays in driving economic growth. We must work together to create a more inclusive and sustainable economy that benefits all sectors. The future of labor demands a concerted effort to address the encroachment of economic disparities and ensure that workers' wages keep pace with inflation.ConclusionThe future of labor is not just about numbers and statistics; it's about people's lives. We must act swiftly to address the encroachment of economic disparities and ensure that workers' wages are fair and reflective of their value. The clock is ticking, and it's time for action.

Edward Lance Arellano Lorilla

CEO / Co-Founder

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