P13 Cola takes effect in Central Visayas
The P13 cost-of-living allowance (Cola) for Central Visayas took effect last March 21 (Friday) as implemented by the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB-7).
“Those affected by Yolanda in northern Cebu and the earthquake in Bohol will not be covered by the P13 Cola,” said Regional Director Chona Mantilla of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-7), who also chairs the wage board.
Mantilla said the audited financial statements of the two-year establishments whose businesses were affected by at least 20 percent because of Yolanda will still be evaluated.
“That exemption isn’t automatic, they need to be evaluated if they are okay for the P13 Cola,” she added.
The Labor Laws Compliance Officers (LLCO) of DOLE-7 will conduct the assessment.
When asked about the labor groups who oppose the P13 Cola, Mantilla replied “it is their right to oppose but the wage board already agreed on the implementation of the Cola.”
“After six months, we will review the P13 Cola and see what happened,” Mantilla told reporters last Friday.
The P13 Cola was first granted last February 14 following the wage board deliberations at Casino Español.
The Alliance of Progressive Labor (ALP) proposed a P132 increase while the Associated Labor Union–Trade Union Congress of the Philippines proposed a P90 wage increase.
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