If you are living or working in Manila City in the Philippines, then it is important for you to understand how much is the minimum wage is in Manila City. If you are already working or running a business, then you should check the details about wage laws and figure out how they work. It will help you to make plans and reduce expenses.
In 2025, there will be many updates made to the minimum wage in Manila. These changes are made to keep in mind the increased prices of basic needs like food and transportation. This article will guide you on how minimum wages work and how they are applied. If you are an employee and want to verify that you are getting your wages according to your work, then you should read the given details carefully, because it is your right to know about your wages. The rate table is also given at salarygradephilippines.com
What Is the Current Minimum Wage in Manila (2025)?
In Manila, the minimum wage has been set by the government. These are the per-day minimum wages that are paid by the businessman to his employees.
- The workers who are not working in the agriculture sector, like offices, factories, or other big companies, can be paid ₱645 per day.
- Agriculture workers, small shops, and other service business employees can be paid ₱573.
These wages are not fixed for life time, and are reviewed by the RTWPB-NCR group, and can be changed over time.
Who Is Entitled to the Minimum Wage?
The employees who are entitled to the minimum wages are;
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If you are an employee of a private company in Manila.
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Your employer falls within the non-exempt category (i.e., not a small family business or informal sector)
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You are working under an employment agreement, even it is be full-time or part-time.
However, some exemptions may apply, such as:
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Household/domestic workers (covered separately under the Kasambahay Law, with a ₱6,000/month minimum in NCR)
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Apprentices and learners under specific training programs (entitled to 75% of the minimum wage)
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Micro-enterprises with capitalization below ₱3 million may apply for exemptions under specific conditions
How Is the Minimum Wage Implemented?
Employers must follow wage rules strictly. Here is how they are applied.
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Daily Rate Compliance: Employers are required to pay at least ₱610/day (or ₱573/day) based on the worker category.
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No Deductions Below Minimum: There is no deduction by the employers in wage rate (except for legally mandated contributions like SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG).
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Holiday and Overtime Pay: You are also entitled to premium pay (e.g., 130% on special holidays, 200% on regular holidays).
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Non-Compliance Penalties: If any employer violates wage law or face labor sanctions under the Labor Code of the Philippines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the minimum wage the same across the Philippines?
No. Each region has its own wage department. For example, workers in Region IV-A (CALABARZON) may receive lower minimum rates than those in NCR due to different living cost benchmarks.
How much is the monthly equivalent of ₱610/day?
Assuming 26 working days/month:
₱610 x 26 = ₱15,860/month (gross)
Dedications like SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth are not included in this calculation.
Are freelancers or gig workers entitled to minimum wage?
No, independent working are not covered under wages law because they negotiate there own amount.
While working as an employee in Manila, it is your right to know your wages. Understanding wage rates, it will help you to get the right wage rates. If someone is trying to violate your rights, then don’t hesitate to call the police.
