P500 Hike in Gov’t Workers’ Allowance Deemed ‘Insult’ by Labor Group

MANILA, Philippines — The Confederation of Independent Unions in the Public Sector (CIU-Sentro) has criticized the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) proposed P500 monthly increase in the Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (Pera) for government employees in 2027. In a statement, the labor group argued that the proposed adjustment is inadequate and an "insult" to public servants, especially in light of the rising inflation and cost of living. CIU-Sentro emphasized that PERA is intended to help government workers cope with economic difficulties brought about by the escalating prices of goods and services. The union stated that the proposed increase would barely make a dent in the purchasing power of public employees, considering that the allowance has been stagnant for years. The group urged the government to reconsider the proposed hike and implement a more substantial increase that would genuinely improve the living standards of government workers. The Philippines has been experiencing elevated inflation rates in recent years, significantly impacting the purchasing power of its citizens, particularly those in lower income brackets and public sector employees. Information source: Inquirer NewsInfo