The Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) has announced a 25% increase in the minimum monthly wage for overseas Filipino domestic workers, raising it from $400 to $500. This change will take effect 60 days after August 22, 2025, around October 21, 2025.
The adjustment comes in response to global inflation, rising living costs, and the increasing international demand for Filipino domestic workers. The wage hike follows six months of consultations and aims to strengthen protections for overseas workers by making the new rate part of standard employment contracts.
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New Wage: $500/month
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Effective Date: Approximately October 21, 2025
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Reason for Increase: To address global economic pressures and better support Filipino workers abroad
Additional Reforms:
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Contract Enforcement: The $500 wage will be embedded in all DMW-approved employment contracts.
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Worker Welfare: Measures to enhance safety and well-being are being introduced.
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Health Requirements: Employers must now ensure that domestic workers receive yearly medical checkups.
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Living Standards: Employers are obligated to provide safe, livable housing, including proper ventilation, sanitation, and lighting
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Reactions and Implications:
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Malaysian Response: Recruitment agencies in Malaysia have raised concerns about the 25% wage hike, calling it steep and possibly unwarranted. They worry it could reduce the number of Filipino domestic workers willing or available to work in Malaysia and believe the matter should be discussed with the Philippine authorities.
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Global Scope: The wage increase applies to all countries, but Malaysia may be especially affected, as their current standard wage for Filipino domestic workers falls below the new minimum.
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Employer Impact: The higher salary may discourage some employers from hiring Filipino workers, limiting recruitment to those who can afford the new rate.
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