MALASIQUI, Pangasinan - The daily minimum wage rate in the Ilocos Region will soon increase to PHP372 and PHP400 following the approval of the Regional Tripartite Wages and Productivity Board-1 (RTWPB1). In an interview on Tuesday, Department of Labor and Employment Ilocos Region information officer Justin Paul Marbella said the new minimum wage rate is now up for the affirmation of the National Wages and Productivity Commission. "After which, it will be published in local newspapers and then the new rate shall be effective in 15 days upon publication," he said. Marbella said the RTWPB-1 approved on May 11 the minimum wage of PHP400 daily for all non-agriculture establishments employing 10 or more employees; and PHP372 a day for all non-agriculture firms employing less than 10 employees; and agriculture, whether plantation or non-plantation. The minimum wage starting 2019 has been PHP340 daily for non-agricultural establishments with more than 30 employees; PHP310 for those w