Manila, May 1 -- The Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) announced Thursday that consultations on a possible wage hike for minimum wage earners in Metro Manila will begin mid-May.

DOLE-National Capital Region (NCR) Director Sarah Buena Mirasol said preparations are underway for discussions between labor and employer groups regarding a potential salary adjustment for private-sector workers.

"Consultations between workers and employers will begin in May, followed by a public hearing in June," Mirasol said on the sidelines of the Labor Day job fair at SMX Convention Center in Pasay City.

Should wage deliberations proceed smoothly and lead to a decision, Mirasol said a new wage order could be issued as early as July.

The last wage h...