The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) has officially announced a philippine domestic workers wage update, increasing the minimum wage for household workers or “Kasambahays” starting August 2025. This move comes after consultations with labor groups, employers, and wage boards, recognizing the critical role of domestic helpers in Filipino households. The Kasambahay Salary 2025 increase seeks to ensure decent working conditions and fair compensation amid inflation and economic changes.
Kasambahays—domestic workers who serve in households performing essential tasks like cleaning, cooking, caregiving, and laundry—are among the most underprotected sectors in the labor force. This update is a step toward recognizing their contribution and ensuring they earn a livable income.
New Minimum Salary Rates for Kasambahays in 2025
Under the philippine domestic workers wage update, the new rates vary depending on the geographic location. Metro Manila domestic workers will receive the highest increase, followed by those in chartered cities, first-class municipalities, and rural areas. These rates align with the wage boards’ assessment of cost-of-living differences across the regions.
Here’s the updated breakdown of the Kasambahay Salary 2025:
| Location | Previous Monthly Salary | New Monthly Salary (Aug 2025) | Increase |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro Manila | ₱6,000 | ₱7,000 | ₱1,000 |
| Chartered Cities & 1st Class Municipalities | ₱5,000 | ₱6,000 | ₱1,000 |
| Other Municipalities | ₱4,500 | ₱5,500 | ₱1,000 |
This Kasambahay Salary 2025 adjustment applies to all domestic workers, whether they live-in or live-out, and includes those employed as general house helpers, cooks, nannies, gardeners, and caregivers.
Key Drivers Behind the Wage Adjustment
The philippine domestic workers wage update is driven by several important economic and social factors. Rising inflation, increasing cost of utilities and food, and the essential services provided by kasambahays make this adjustment long overdue.
Reasons for the wage increase:
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High inflation eroding real income
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Rising cost of basic goods and transport
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Recognition of the vital role of domestic helpers
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DOLE compliance with labor equity standards
These updates also fulfill provisions under Republic Act No. 10361 (Batas Kasambahay), which mandates fair wages, contracts, and protection for domestic workers.
Responsibilities of Employers Under the New Rules
With the Kasambahay Salary 2025 increase taking effect, employers must revise contracts and ensure timely wage adjustments. DOLE has reminded employers that failure to comply may result in legal consequences, especially if workers file complaints with the labor department.
Employer action points:
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Update employment contracts to reflect new wages
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Ensure proper documentation of salary payments
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Provide monthly payslips and contributions to SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG
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Maintain respectful and non-exploitative workplace environments
Employers are encouraged to treat their household workers with dignity, reflecting the important role kasambahays play in supporting Filipino homes.
Social and Economic Impact of the Wage Increase
The philippine domestic workers wage update isn’t just about numbers—it’s about empowering a neglected labor sector. Raising the Kasambahay Salary 2025 helps reduce poverty, improve worker morale, and align with international labor standards.
Positive impacts include:
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Increased purchasing power for domestic workers
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Boost to local household demand
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Reduced labor exploitation and turnover
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More formal employment arrangements with benefits
The wage hike also reflects growing recognition that household work is real work, deserving of proper pay and respect.
Conclusion
The philippine domestic workers wage update for August 2025 marks a significant milestone in protecting the rights and livelihoods of kasambahays across the country. The revised Kasambahay Salary 2025 levels ensure fairer compensation that better matches the cost of living, particularly in urban centers.
This is more than a wage hike—it’s an acknowledgment of the daily sacrifices and services rendered by Filipino domestic workers. Employers and policymakers alike must now do their part to uphold these new standards and ensure every kasambahay is treated with fairness and dignity.
FAQs
What is the new monthly wage for kasambahays in Metro Manila?
Under the Kasambahay Salary 2025, domestic workers in Metro Manila will receive a minimum monthly wage of ₱7,000, up from ₱6,000.
When will the philippine domestic workers wage update take effect?
The wage update takes effect starting August 2025, and applies to all new and existing domestic work contracts.
Does the wage increase include other benefits?
No, the wage increase is separate from mandatory benefits such as SSS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth contributions, which employers must continue to provide.
Who is covered by the Kasambahay Salary 2025?
All household workers, including nannies, cooks, housekeepers, and caregivers, are covered by the philippine domestic workers wage update.
What happens if an employer fails to comply?
Non-compliance with the Kasambahay Salary 2025 can result in administrative penalties, fines, and labor disputes filed through DOLE.
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