By MAE SINGUAY

The General Alliance of Workers Association (GAWA) expressed profound disappointment and dismay over the glaring omission of the proposed legislated wage increase during President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr.’s State of the Nation Address (SONA) on Monday, July 28.

GAWA Secretary General Wennie Sancho lamented that the pressing concerns of workers, particularly the inadequacy of wages and the need for substantial increases, were conspicuously skirted.

Sancho emphasized that the wage issue is a critical matter that directly affects the livelihood and dignity of millions of Filipino workers.

“The failure to address this concern in the SONA underscores the administration’s seeming disregard for the struggles of the working class,” he stressed.

GAWA demands that the government must take immediate and concrete actions to address the wage crisis, ensuring that workers receive just and living wages that reflect the current economic realities.

The organization’s discontent stems from the belief that the government has a responsibility to protect and promote the welfare of its citizens, particularly the most vulnerable sectors.

By ignoring the wage increase issue, the administration falls short of fulfilling this fundamental obligation, Sancho said.

GAWA calls on the government to prioritize the welfare of workers and to work towards meaningful legislative and policy reforms that would provide relief to those struggling to make ends meet.

The group remains steadfast in its commitment to advocate for workers’ rights and to push for policies that promote social justice and economic equity.

The organization urges the government to take heed of the people’s concerns and to act with urgency and sincerity in addressing the pressing issues that affect the lives of Filipino workers and their families.

Earlier this month, Sancho said the wage increase is urgently needed, especially after the failure of Congress to pass a legislated P200 hike.

The Congress’ inaction on wage hike proposals could have offered much-needed relief to struggling workers, citing worsening inflation, surging fuel prices and the continued erosion of purchasing power.

“[They] should listen to the voices of the workers and take action to address their economic struggle,’” Sancho said.

Without the proposal, their purchasing power continues to weaken.

“In times of peace or crisis, workers remain the country’s primary economic drivers. They deserve better,” he said.

Meanwhile, Sancho questioned what he views as the government’s misplaced priorities, accusing lawmakers of favoring corporate interests and the upper class over the needs of ordinary laborers.

In June, Sancho encouraged the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board in Western Visayas to conduct a “motu proprio” review of the current wage structure and swiftly issue a new wage order to restore the dignity and economic stability of the working class./MS, WDJ