The first phase of a P85 daily minimum wage increase went into effect in Metro Manila on Saturday. This initial tranche provides a P60 increase for approximately 1.1 million minimum wage earners across the National Capital Region. The adjustment aims to help workers cope with the rising cost of living. This is the first of two phases intended to reach the full P85 increase. Labor groups welcomed the increase but some continue to call for further adjustments to truly reflect current economic pressures. The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board approved the wage hike earlier this year, with the second tranche scheduled to be implemented later in the year. This change impacts a significant portion of the Metro Manila workforce.