By Gerome Dalipe IV
Amid concerns over the financial struggles of several transportation cooperatives in the region, the Western Visayas Transport Cooperative (WVTC) has demonstrated its financial stability by distributing PHP3 million in dividends to 285 operators during its annual assembly at the Iloilo Grand Hotel.
WVTC President Raymundo “Boyet” Parcon emphasized the cooperative’s strong financial standing during the event over the weekend.
“Our cooperative is strong. We can proudly say that our cooperative is financially stable,” Parcon told Daily Guardian.
As of December 2024, WVTC reported PHP5 million in cash reserves and PHP227 million in total assets, solidifying its position as the largest transportation cooperative in Western Visayas.
Anthony Pe, a WVTC board member, praised the cooperative’s management for its dedication to members despite financial challenges.
“We have faced financial difficulties, but WVTC remains resilient and continues to lead as the top transport cooperative,” he said.
Operating 13 city loop routes and 10 provincial routes, WVTC serves thousands of commuters across the region and is composed of more than 700 operators.
Pe said the cooperative’s ability to provide dividends despite industry challenges reflects effective management and a commitment to its members’ welfare.
In contrast, the Iloilo City Alliance Operators and Drivers Transport Cooperative (ICAODTC) is struggling with growing dissatisfaction among workers due to delayed salaries.
Passenger Assistant Officers (PAOs) have expressed frustration after going more than a month without pay.
Employees, who were supposed to receive their salaries on March 5, were given only a partial payment of PHP1,000 to cover immediate needs.
Additionally, workers reported not receiving mandatory benefits such as SSS, PhilHealth, and Pag-IBIG contributions.
One employee said that while salary delays have happened before, the current situation is unprecedented in severity.
ICAODTC consultant Rizalito Alido voiced deep concern, saying he has summoned Manager Melinda Legaspi to address the delays and propose immediate solutions.
The contrast between WVTC’s financial success and ICAODTC’s struggles highlights the challenges facing the region’s transportation sector.
WVTC’s resilience and effective leadership could serve as a model for other cooperatives, offering a blueprint for improving transport services and ensuring better worker welfare across Western Visayas.
