Up to 3,000 Contract of Service Employees (CSEs) under the executive department of Cotabato City Government are at risk of losing their jobs. Mayor Bruce Matabalao has announced that the delay in the executive department’s salary increase proposal has left the city local government unit (LGU) with no choice but to terminate the contracts of these workers.
Mayor Matabalao expressed his regret in informing the workers that their employment would end starting tomorrow, October 16, 2024. He stated that the proposal remains pending with the Sangunian Panglungsod, and there are no funds available to pay the affected employees. Despite understanding the procedural measures being taken by the Sangunian Panglungsod, the situation has forced the Mayor’s hand.
The Mayor has offered an alternative for the displaced workers: they may sign a Voluntary Undertaking, allowing them to continue working for the City Government while awaiting budget approval for their salaries. Mayor Matabalao remains hopeful that a resolution will be reached soon to address the financial needs of the affected employees.
