By Mariela Angella Oladive
For the first time, regular employees of the Iloilo City Government will receive the maximum allowable Collective Negotiation Agreement (CNA) incentive of PHP30,000 each, Mayor Jerry Treñas announced on Wednesday, December 4, during his 68th birthday celebration.
“This achievement reflects our commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values efficiency, accountability, and the dedication of our employees,” Treñas said in a statement.
He attributed the incentive to the city’s prudent financial management, particularly efforts to reduce electricity costs.
“By prioritizing employee welfare, we continue to build an environment that motivates and inspires excellence in public service,” he added.
The CNA incentive is an annual benefit for qualified government employees and is granted under Department of Budget and Management guidelines. It recognizes contributions to achieving performance targets, improving systems, and ensuring cost-effective operations.
More than 2,000 city government employees are expected to receive the incentive between December 15 and 31.
Resource Employees Association of City Hall (REACH) President Vicente Balajadia expressed gratitude for the benefit, describing it as a welcome financial boost.
“We are very glad. The entire REACH officers, including the Board of Directors, and of course our members, will strive to support the city government and fulfill our obligations,” Balajadia said.
He highlighted efforts to implement cost-saving measures, such as reducing consumables like bond paper and electricity usage.
In 2023, employees were unable to receive the incentive due to unfulfilled Civil Service Commission requirements. This year, the city government ensured compliance, allowing for the incentive’s release.
Treñas, who recently underwent a successful bile duct operation, announced he would resume work on Monday, December 9.
He commended Acting Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon for ensuring smooth city government operations during his medical leave.
Meanwhile, Treñas said the city is awaiting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s announcement on gratuity pay, which could exceed PHP5,000.
“We are also anticipating the release of the guidelines for the SRI [Service Recognition Incentive] and gratuity for our job hires,” Treñas noted.
