Labor Secretary Tolentino and Rep. San Fernando clash over Metro Manila wage hike

Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino and Kamanggagawa party-list Representative Elijah San Fernando clashed during a House Committee on Appropriations hearing regarding the implementation of a P85 wage increase for workers in Metro Manila.

The dispute centers on Wage Order No. 27, which is currently subject to a pending case before the Pasig Regional Trial Court. San Fernando argued that the wage order should be enforced, claiming the injunction is unenforceable because petitioners failed to post a required P10 billion bond. He further called for the Commission on Appointments to block Tolentino’s confirmation as labor secretary due to his stance on the matter.

Tolentino stated that the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) adheres to the position of the Office of the Solicitor General, noting that implementation depends on court decisions and legal interpretations. During the budget hearing for DOLE’s 2027 proposal, San Fernando moved to defer the proceedings due to the disagreement, but the motion was defeated by a 31-7 vote.