Philippine Labor Law Glossary
Definition: Agricultural minimum wage is the minimum wage rate that applies to covered agricultural workers under the applicable regional wage order.
What Agricultural Minimum Wage Means
The Wage Rationalization Act recognizes agricultural and non-agricultural wage rates within the regional minimum-wage system. The exact agricultural rate depends on the controlling wage order for the worker’s region and may differ from the non-agricultural rate.
The implementing rules of Republic Act No. 6727 describe agriculture broadly to include farming and related activities such as cultivation, livestock, poultry and certain farm-based activities, subject to the specific legal definitions and coverage rules.
Why the Rate Can Differ
Regional wage orders may establish different rates or classifications for agricultural workers. Some orders also distinguish plantation and non-plantation agriculture or apply other sector and establishment classifications.
Common Misunderstanding
Misunderstanding: Agricultural workers automatically receive the same minimum wage as all non-agricultural workers in the same region.
Correct approach: Check the current regional wage order because agriculture may have a separate prescribed rate or classification.
Related Terms
Sources and Legal Citations
- Republic Act No. 6727 — regional minimum wages and implementing definitions for agriculture. Lawphil text.
- National Wages and Productivity Commission — current regional agricultural and non-agricultural wage rates. Official NWPC site.
Editorial Review and Legal-Review Status
Prepared by: LaborCode.ph Editorial Team
Source verification: Official wage sources checked on August 8, 2026
Article-level legal review status: No named lawyer-review credit has been assigned to this glossary entry.
Disclaimer
The applicable agricultural minimum wage changes by region and wage order. Verify the current official matrix before relying on a peso amount.
