BY GEROME DALIPE IV
ILOILO City – Mayor Jerry Treñas has called on the City Council to convene a special session to expedite the approval of Service Recognition Incentives (SRI) for regular employees, as well as gratuity pay for Contract of Service (COS) and Job Order (JO) personnel.
In a statement, Treñas emphasized that these fiscal measures are part of the city’s broader strategy to improve the lives of Ilonggos, ensuring that employees are properly compensated for their hard work and dedication.
The approval of these incentives will provide much-needed financial support to the city’s workforce, which plays a crucial role in maintaining the smooth operation of city services, the mayor stressed.
The city’s fiscal achievements, which include sustained revenue generation and effective budget management, are seen as key factors in enabling the government to allocate resources for such incentives.
Treñas noted that the city’s financial health, coupled with prudent fiscal policies, makes it possible to prioritize the welfare of its employees while simultaneously addressing the needs of the community.
The mayor stressed the city’s fiscal discipline and financial stability, which have enabled such support.
He pointed to the turnaround of the Local Economic Enterprise Office (LEEO) as a prime example.
From struggling with deficits and unpaid obligations, the LEEO is now generating surpluses, with P15 million posted in November alone and higher expectations for December.
Treñas credited this success to prudent financial management, ensuring resources are used responsibly while delivering top-quality services in health, governance, public markets, and public plazas.
“We have made accessing essential services more convenient by expanding payment centers across malls, bringing city services closer to the people,” Treñas said, reinforcing his commitment to financial responsibility for the benefit of all Ilonggos.
He expressed confidence that Iloilo City will close the year with a surplus, demonstrating the effectiveness of the city’s fiscal policies and its commitment to improving the lives of its citizens.
Treñas pointed out the city government’s commitment to acknowledging the dedication and contributions of its workforce.
“We aim to ensure that our COS and JO employees, who work tirelessly to help make Iloilo City progressive and thriving, can celebrate the Christmas season with joy, gratitude, and peace of mind,” said Treñas.
Treñas also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Iloilo City Council for approving supplemental budget 5 last Friday.
The approval guarantees the release of Service Recognition Incentives (SRI) for regular employees and gratuity pay for COS and JO personnel.
The mayor pointed out that this funding reflects the city government’s dedication to supporting its workforce and recognizing their invaluable contributions.
The timely approval ensures that employees can enjoy the holiday season with added joy and appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has issued Administrative Order No. 28, authorizing a one-time gratuity pay for COS and JO workers in the government for 2024.
This initiative acknowledges their significant contributions to public service amidst current socio-economic challenges.
Under the administrative order, COS and JO workers with at least four months of satisfactory service as of Dec. 15, 2024, are entitled to a gratuity pay not exceeding P7,000.
Those with less than four months of service are eligible for pro-rated of P6,000 for three months but less than four months.
For employees working for two months but less than three months, they shall receive at least P5,000 and P4,000 for those working less than two months.
In his message, Treñas emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure the COS and JO employees, who work tirelessly to contribute to Iloilo City’s progress and success, can celebrate the Christmas season with joy, gratitude, and peace of mind.
Treñas highlighted Iloilo City’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and accountability in managing its resources.
“As we strive for continuous growth and development, we have ensured that every centavo is spent wisely, ensuring that all our employees are taken care of while delivering top-quality services to our people,” Treñas said.
He emphasized that this positive financial trend showcases the effectiveness of the city’s fiscal oversight, projecting confidence that Iloilo City will close the year with a surplus.
Treñas added that the city’s fiscal stability allows it to deliver the best services in health, governance, public markets, and public plazas.
He also pointed to initiatives like expanding payment centers in malls to make essential city services more accessible to citizens.
“As your mayor, I am committed to ensuring that our city remains financially strong, and I will continue to ensure that we use our resources responsibly to benefit all Ilonggos,” Treñas said.
The mayor reaffirmed that the city’s fiscal achievements are a testament to its commitment to improving the lives of its people and ensuring a brighter future for all residents./PN
