What is NWPC? A Comprehensive Overview to the National Wages and Productivity Commission

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In July 1989, the Philippine Congress introduced a transformative legislation, Republic Act No. 6727, popularly known as the “Wage Rationalization Act.” 

This pivotal law laid the foundation for a revamped approach to minimum wage determination by establishing the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) and the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) across the nation. 

Operating as an attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the NWPC became a crucial player in shaping the wage landscape in the Philippines.

In this article, we will dive into the history, job opportunities, functions, and impact of the NWPC, shedding light on its role in job regulation and more. 

So, keep on reading to uncover the intricacies of this significant institution.

Job Opportunities:

Discover impactful roles at the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC). Join a dedicated team shaping fair labor practices and influencing policies for economic development. 

Whether you’re experienced or a newcomer, each position contributes to a meaningful career. 

Click on job titles to learn more and explore opportunities across various government agencies. Be part of positive change at NWPC – where your career makes an impact!

History of NWPC:

The inception of the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) can be traced back to a significant legislative milestone in the Philippines. 

In July 1989, the Philippine Congress enacted Republic Act No. 6727, commonly known as the “Wage Rationalization Act.” 

This pivotal legislation marked a paradigm shift in the country’s approach to determining minimum wages and addressing productivity concerns.

Under the provisions of RA 6727, the NWPC was established as a key policy-making body on matters related to wages, incomes, and productivity. 

Its primary mandate was to play a crucial role in setting minimum wages at various levels, be it regional, provincial, or industry-specific. 

The creation of the NWPC aimed to strike a balance between the needs of workers, the capacity of employers to pay, and the broader requirements for social and economic development.

Subsequently, Republic Act No. 6971, enacted in 1990, further expanded the NWPC’s role by incorporating the Productivity Incentives Act. 

This addition underscored the commission’s commitment to fostering productivity improvement and gainsharing schemes, particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The NWPC operates as an attached agency of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), allowing it to integrate its efforts seamlessly with broader labor policies and initiatives in the country. 

Over the years, the commission has been instrumental in formulating policies, guidelines, and recommendations related to wages, incomes, and productivity.

The Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs) were also established as a result of the Wage Rationalization Act, working in tandem with the NWPC to address regional nuances and ensure a more localized and responsive approach to wage determination.

Today, the NWPC continues to evolve, adapting to the dynamic needs of the Filipino workforce and the ever-changing economic landscape. 

Its commitment to continuous improvement, compliance with legal requirements, and the enhancement of its talent pool reflects its enduring role as a cornerstone in shaping the wage and productivity policies that contribute to the well-being of the nation. 

The commission’s history is a testament to its vital role in promoting fair labor practices, productivity enhancement, and economic development in the Philippines.

Vision:

“A justly remunerated and productive Filipino workforce in globally competitive enterprises.”

Mission:

“Set minimum wage that protects vulnerable workers from undue low pay. Promote productivity improvement and incentive schemes among MSMEs.”

Quality Policy:

The NWPC is committed to:

1. Provide quality service to the workers and enterprises on wages, incomes, and productivity through policy and program development and implementation;

2. Comply with all applicable legal requirements;

3. Continually improve all processes and systems to meet the requirements of relevant interested parties; and

4. Enhance the competencies of its talents.

The NWPC is focused on maintaining high standards through its Quality Policy. This policy reflects the organization’s commitment to delivering excellent services to workers and businesses in matters related to wages, incomes, and productivity. 

It emphasizes adherence to legal requirements, continuous improvement, and the development of its team, serving as a fundamental guide for ensuring quality and efficiency.

Core Values: 

Understanding NWPC’s Key Principles and Beliefs.

  1. Makatao (People Centric)

“Our people is our prime asset.”



  1. Malikhain (Innovative)

“Innovation makes things possible.”



  1. Mahusay (Excellence)

“Public service at its best.”

Mandate:

The NWPC, a key policy-making body on wages, incomes, and productivity, operates under the mandates of Republic Act No. 6727 (Wage Rationalization Act, 1989) and Republic Act No. 6971 (Productivity Incentives Act of 1990). 

Its responsibilities include determining minimum wages at regional, provincial, and industry levels and promoting productivity improvement and gainsharing schemes, particularly among micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs). 

The NWPC formulates policies and guidelines on wages, incomes, and productivity, exercising technical and administrative supervision over the RTWPBs.

Services:

The NWPC and RTWPBs offer a range of services, including research and policy advice to the President and Congress, determination of minimum wage rates, research on wages and productivity, and formulation of related policies. 

They provide training courses and consulting services on quality and productivity improvement for MSMEs, promote gainsharing schemes, offer information services through various channels, and conduct wage clinics for one-on-one consultations.

NWPC: Program Thrusts/Priorities

The NWPC focuses on key program thrusts, including Minimum Wage Setting, Productivity Toolbox advocacy for MSMEs, and sustaining good governance and accountability. 

It aims to balance the needs of workers and employers, encourage MSME engagement in productivity improvement, and uphold principles of good governance.

NWPC Commission:

Comprising the Secretary of Labor and Employment as Chairperson, the Secretary of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) as Vice Chairperson, the Secretary of the Department of Trade and Industry as an Observer, and two representatives each from the worker and employer sectors, the NWPC is led by its Executive Director and supported by its secretariat.

NWPC Regional Boards:

Each RTWPB, headed by the Departement Of LAbor and Employment Regional Director as Chairperson and assisted by the National Economic and Development Authority and Department of Trade and Industry Regional Directors as Vice-Chairpersons, includes two representatives from the worker and employer sectors. 

The boards are facilitated by their respective secretariats, led by the Board Secretary.

Organizational Structure:

NWPC

Contact Details:

For inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out to the National Wages and Productivity Commission through the following:

Email: info@nwpc.dole.gov.ph
Phone:8527-8013
Address: National Wages and Productivity Commission
2nd & 3rd Floor, DY International Building,
San Marcelino corner Gen. Malvar Streets,
Malate, Manila, 1004

Regional Directory:

Regional BoardAddressContact NumberEmail Address
RTWPB – NCR2nd/F DY International Bldg. San Marcelino cor. Gen. Malvar Sts. Malate, ManilaTel: 8-527-5155 Telefax: 8-400-6765rbncr@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – CAR3rd Floor DOLE Bldg., # 1 Cabinet Hill, Baguio City 2600Tel: (074) 3003452 Telefax: (074) 4243416rbcar@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – IRm 202-203, Juanita Commercial Building, Quezon Avenue, San Fernando City, La UnionTel: (072) 6078914 Fax: (072) 2424396rb1@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – II3/F Andrew’s Bldg. Luna corner Blumentrit Sts., Tuguegarao CityTel: (078) 8441553 Telefax: (078) 8440956rb2@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – III2nd Floor Kingspire Business Center, Km 71 McArthur Highway, Brgy San Isidro, City of San Fernando, PampangaTel./Fax: (045) 649 1048, 0905-706-9146, 0918-253-7930rb3@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – IVA3rd Flr. Milan Prestige Bldg. National Highway,Brgy. Halang Calamba City, LagunaTelefax: (049) 5455511; (049) 8344030rb4a@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – MIMAROPANo. 007 Aboboto Street, San Vicente East, Calapan City, Oriental MindoroTel: (043) 288-1425rb4b@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – VANST Bldg., Washington Drive, Legaspi CityTel: (052) 742-4172rb5@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – VIRm. 30, 3/F Doña Maria Bldg. La Castilla, cor. EL 98 Sts., Jaro, Iloilo CityTelefax: (033) 320-5864/329-0880rb6@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – VII6/F DOLE VII Bldg., Gorordo Avenue, Kamputhaw, Cebu City, 6000Tel./Fax: (032) 2668068/4129072rb7@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – VIIIDOLE Compound., Trece Martires St., Tacloban City, 6500Tel: (053) 832-2978rb8@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – IXCompartment 2-F, H.C. Marketing Bldg., Gov. Camins Avenue, Zamboanga CityTel: (062) 991-2672rb9@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – X2nd Floor, Trinidad Building, Corrales-Yacapin Streets, Cagayan de Oro CityTel: (088) 880-3920 Mobile: (0917) 793-682rb10@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – XIUpper Ground Floor, Parking Building, Bormaheco Compound, J.P. Laurel Avenue, Bajada, Davao CityTel: (082) 2224652 Telefax: (082) 2242027rb11@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – XIIMarjoses Building II, Jesse M. Robredo Avenue, Purok Pag-ibig, Brgy. Zone III, Koronadal CityTel: (083) 520-0129 / (083) 878-4723rb12@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – CARAGANimfa Tiu Bldg. No.4 J.P. Rosales Ave. Butuan City, Agusan del NorteTel: (085) 817-2038 Tel/Fax: (085) 815-6405rb13@produktiboatsahod.onmicrosoft.com
RTWPB – BARMMARMM Complex/ORG Compound., Cotabato City 9600Tel: (064) 546-0410 Fax: 421-9728mole.btwpb@gmail.com

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the National Wages and Productivity Commission (NWPC) stands as a pivotal force in shaping the economic landscape of the Philippines, striving to ensure fair wages, enhance productivity, and promote the well-being of both workers and enterprises. 

With its comprehensive mandates, the NWPC, alongside the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Boards (RTWPBs), plays a crucial role in determining minimum wages, fostering productivity improvement, and providing essential services to diverse stakeholders.

As job seekers navigate the dynamic employment landscape, understanding the mechanisms and functions of the NWPC becomes instrumental. 

The Commission’s commitment to balanced wage setting, productivity enhancement, and good governance sets the stage for a more equitable and thriving work environment.

To job seekers, this signifies an opportunity to stay informed about minimum wage standards, engage in productivity-focused training provided by the NWPC and RTWPBs, and leverage gainsharing schemes. 

By staying abreast of these initiatives and actively participating in programs designed to enhance skills and productivity, job seekers can position themselves more competitively in the job market.

In a rapidly evolving job market, the NWPC serves as a beacon of support for job seekers, offering valuable resources and initiatives aimed at fostering a conducive and rewarding work environment. 

Disclaimer:

The Philippine Go does not collect fees and is not a hiring agency, nor is it related to any hiring agency for employment abroad. 

All information contained here is solely for informational purposes and rightfully belongs to its rightful owner. 

Attached in the last section of the content are references for further verification, if needed. Read more

Reference:

1. National Wages and Productivity Commission. (n.d.). Mission, Vision, and Mandate. Retrieved from [https://nwpc.dole.gov.ph/mission-vision-and-mandate/]

2. National Wages and Productivity Commission. (n.d.). Organizational Structure. Retrieved from [https://nwpc.dole.gov.ph/organizational-structure/]

3. National Wages and Productivity Commission. (n.d.). Social Media Account. Retrieved from [https://nwpc.dole.gov.ph/social-media-account/]