Capitol workers appeal for guv's mercy on SP nod of wage hike
They appealed and prayed. Despite Tuesday's legislative approval, yet more appeals and more prayers.
As such, the saga of salary increase for workers of the Iloilo Provincial Government continues. This time seeming extra pressure on Governor Niel Tupas Sr. in an open letter from Iloilo Provincial Government employees.
A "Take two" too, for the Capitol workers who had to band anew with a heartfelt message for the governor.
"We, the Iloilo Provincial Government Employees, once again and for one and the same reason collectively bind ourselves and set our hands for the common good, asking the duly authorized Chief Executive of the Province of Iloilo in the person of Honorable Governor Niel D. Tupas Sr. not to VETO the recently approved Appropriation Ordinance No. 2008-02 of the Sanggunian Panlalawigan ng Iloilo so that we can avail of our 10% Salary Adjustments in the soonest possible time," the appeal began. "We understand that both the Executive and Legislative Departments of this Provincial Government are doing their part to give this long-awaited 10% salary increase and other benefits to the Iloilo Provincial Government Employees and each of the said Departments had already done their shares."
To note, the budget issue in the Capitol has since fueled the opposing politics of Governor Tupas and nephew, Vice Governor Rolex Suplico.
"We do not preempt your decision whether or not to Veto the said Appropriations Ordinance because we indeed never know what really is in your mind," the appeal continued. "All we pray is for you to realize that this will be a crucial decision in your part and our claims lies in your very hands."
"Somewhat" similar sentiments from the vice governor.
In a message sent to The News Today (TNT), Suplico appealed as well to his uncle not to veto the said appropriate ordinance for the workers' wage hike.
"Governor Tupas should not veto an ordinance giving employees a salary increase. The least he can do if he violently objects to it is to allow it lapse into law. Certainly, his tantrums are understandable though since 60% of the items in the P96 million proposed Supplemental Budget No. 1 are not for employees' benefits. They are for his politics, his political supporters and his pork barrel," Suplico said.