Fresh Graduate’s PHP40K Starting Salary Complaint Sparks Online Debate
40K FOR STARTING? – A fresh graduate’s post complaining about a PHP40,000 starting salary went viral, sparking widespread debate among netizens about wage expectations for new job seekers.
In the post, the graduate expressed frustration at the offer, feeling that it was too low given the hard work and sleepless nights spent during their studies. The graduate questioned whether to accept the offer or hold out for a higher salary. This prompted many netizens to share their own experiences, with some agreeing with the graduate’s concerns, while others pointed out that starting with a lower salary is a common reality for many Filipinos.
Several users shared personal stories of earning low salaries, such as one person who began with PHP8,000 and spent over five years working to reach PHP40,000. Others argued that while PHP40,000 might seem like a fair starting point for someone just entering the workforce, it is not enough to support a family and should be considered the minimum wage. There were calls to stop glorifying the struggle of low-paying jobs, with some suggesting that other countries offer better wages and more comfortable living conditions.
The discussion also expanded to address the larger issue of wage inequality in the Philippines. Many people pointed out that Filipino workers are often paid much less than their international counterparts for similar work, which leads many Filipinos to seek opportunities abroad for better pay. Some suggested that fresh graduates should accept offers like PHP40,000 as a starting point, knowing that salaries tend to rise with experience. Others encouraged young workers to advocate for better compensation and not settle for lower pay.
Ultimately, the post highlighted a broader frustration with the Filipino employment system, where many workers feel they are underpaid despite the effort and education they invest. The conversation emphasized the need for fairer salary standards and better opportunities for a sustainable livelihood.
