THE fate of 20 job order personnel who are yet to collect their 2013 honorarium remain uncertain.
Councilors are still in disagreement on how to deal with their money claims because they are apprehensive that their action will set a precedent for other JOs who are yet to claim their pay from the city.
The 20 JOs were employed as security personnel at the Pasil Fish Port and have not received their honoraria covering April to December 2013 because of the absence of a valid employment contract from the city government.
Councilors Hanz Abella, Alvin Arcilla and Philip Zafra, members of the three-man ad hoc committee that reviewed their money claims recommended the release of their honoraria.
Abella said the city should release their money claims amounting to P1.3 million which will be funded by the unspent fidelity bonds from last year. Councilor Margot Osmena, the City Council’s majority floor leader and budget committee chairperson, said that she agrees with the ad hoc committee on the need to pay the 20 JOs. “But any charge to an augmented account should be based on an appointment which is not mentioned in the (committee) report,” Osmeña said.
Councilor Gerardo Carillo warned the council that they could be held liable if they also approve the employment contract of the 20 JOs in the absence of a project proposal.
“They already have rendered service and should be paid. Otherwise we will also be held liable,” Abella explained.
After a recess, Abella decided to withdraw his committee report saying he will instead propose a resolution seeking the approval of the contract of the 20 JOs.
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