SURIGAO CITY — For the thousands of domestic workers who keep households running across Surigao City and the rest of Caraga, the new year brought a meaningful boost in compensation. On January 3, 2026, Wage Order No. RXIII-DW-06 took effect, raising the monthly minimum wage for kasambahays from PHP6,000 to PHP6,500; a PHP500 increase that represents a significant step toward recognizing the value of household work. The adjustment covers all chartered cities, including Surigao, Butuan, Bayugan, Bislig, Cabadbaran, and Tandag, as well as first-class municipalities and provinces across the Caraga region.
A Wage Increase Backed by Deliberation
The wage adjustment followed a rigorous process of study and consultation. Earl D. dela Victoria, Board Secretary VI of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board (RTWPB) Caraga, emphasized that the decision was the result of extensive public hearings. “After a series of public hearings and deliberations, the Board decided to increase the minimum wage of our domestic workers to PHP6,500 per month,” he stated. The order was issued on December 9, 2025, and took effect 15 days after its publication on December 18.
Surigao City Hosts Araw ng Kasambahay Celebration
To mark the implementation, the DOLE–Surigao del Norte Field Office and RTWPB-Caraga hosted the #ParaKayK 2026: Araw ng Kasambahay celebration in Surigao City on February 23, 2026. Domestic workers, local government representatives, and the Public Employment Service Office (PESO) gathered to strengthen protections for the sector. During the event, dela Victoria and Supervising LEO Cornelius Mahinay oriented attendees on the provisions of the new wage order, reaffirming the government's commitment to worker welfare.
Compliance and Enforcement
Dela Victoria reminded both employers and workers to adhere to existing labor standards, noting that fair compensation is a fundamental right. He also acknowledged the vital partnership with DOLE–Surigao del Norte Field Office Head May C. Velonta, which has been instrumental in promoting compliance. DOLE Caraga Regional Director Atty. Jason P. Balais further urged employers to adopt the new rates, emphasizing that fair compensation not only satisfies the law but also boosts morale and productivity in the household.
A Step Toward Dignity
The PHP500 increase serves as a vital affirmation that domestic work,frequently invisible, is essential labor deserving of fair treatment. As the region continues to evolve, this wage adjustment provides a much-needed lifeline for families, bringing domestic workers in line with broader regional wage adjustments and ensuring that their contributions to the Caraganon economy are respected and compensated.
