Senator Risa Hontiveros welcomed the P85 daily minimum wage increase for Metro Manila workers but emphasized the need for systemic reforms to address workers' challenges and support businesses.

She reiterated her advocacy for Senate Bill 210, which proposes a two-track wage system requiring large companies to provide fair wage catch-up while offering support mechanisms for micro, small, and medium enterprises.

The bill includes exemptions for eligible small businesses from immediate wage compliance, simplifies registration and tax processes, and restructures Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards to prioritize labor and employment agency representation.

Employers' groups opposed the wage hike during deliberations but agreed to comply, warning of potential layoffs and shutdowns in small enterprises.

The article highlights the debate over balancing wage adjustments with economic sustainability, underscoring the complexity of implementing reforms that benefit both workers and businesses without causing sectoral disruptions.