Senator renews call for new round of pay increase for gov’t workers

MANILA – Senator Jinggoy Estrada has called for a new round of salary increase spread over four years for approximately 1.9 million government employees.

Estrada recently filed a bill for Salary Standardization Law (SSL) VI, outlined under Senate Bill (SB) No. 2611.

The bill proposes a 10 percent increase in the first tranche or the first year of implementation; 11 percent increase for the second tranche; 12 percent for the third tranche; and 13 percent on the fourth tranche, or an overall 46 percent hike.

“Napaso na noong nakaraang taon ang Salary Standardization Law (SSL) 5 na pinatupad ng nakaraang administrasyon na tumutugon sa tumataas na cost of living o gastusin. Patuloy pa rin naman ang pagtaas ng presyo ng mga bilihin at serbisyo kaya dapat ay may kaakibat na pagtaas din sa sahod ang mga kawani ng gobyerno upang sila ay makapagbigay ng disenteng pamumuhay sa kani-kanilang pamilya (The SSL 5 ended last year after being implemented by the previous administration that responded to the rising cost of living or expenses. The price of goods and services continues to rise, so there should be an increase in the wages of government employees so that they can provide a decent living for their families),” Estrada said.

SB 2611 covers civilian government employees, including public school teachers, nurses, and local government personnel, but excludes military personnel, certain government-owned corporations, and individuals hired through job orders or contracts.

The salary increase for high-ranking officials like the President, Vice President, and members of Congress will take effect after their current terms expire.

Estrada, who chairs the Committee on Labor, Employment and Human Resources, emphasized the need to standardize and rationalize compensation across government agencies to promote social justice, integrity, and efficiency in the civil service.

“The bill intends to convey the government’s gratitude for their selfless service and utmost dedication to their work. Also, it will make the compensation of government workers competitive, thus helping retain the incumbent employees and attract applicants at the same time. Through this, we can expect a more vibrant and robust civil service in the country,” he said.

In February, Estrada and other senators unanimously approved SB 2534 which seeks to hike the salary of workers in the private sector by PHP100. — Wilnard Bacelonia (PNA)

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