On 87th Anniversary Celebration: The Freeman gives another pay hike, free medical insurance to workers

The Freeman and Banat News employees received a salary increase and medical insurance in celebration of the newspaper's 87th anniversary yesterday.

Miguel Go Belmonte, president of The FREEMAN and Banat News announced the granting of the salary hike and medical insurance to employees of both papers.

This is the fourth pay hike granted by the management to employees since The FREEMAN became a member of the Star Group of Publications. Belmonte, who also sits as president and CEO of the Star Group of Publications, entered into a strategic partnership with Jose "Dodong" Gullas, chairman of The FREEMAN and Banat News in 2004.

Aside from the pay hikes and medical insurance, The Freeman management granted employees a cost of living allowance July of last year, increased the employees' monthly allowance last December and granted a 14th month pay this year.

Ma. Josefina Belmonte-Alimuring, the sister of Miguel; finance manager Angie Isidro, and credit and collection officer Emma Doroteo of Pilipino Star Ngayon also graced the celebration.

Nine employees from different departments of The Freeman received special awards for their meritorious conduct and dedication in the fulfillment of the company's mission in becoming the leading local and regional newspaper. They are Joeberth Marti Ocao, Jasmine Uy, Lucky Malicay and Edwin Ian Melecio of the editorial department; Charlito Cañar and Ricky Turno of the production department; Dick Batucan of the circulation department; Franklyn Llanos of the accounting department and Socrates Clerigo of the maintenance and materials department. - Garry B. Lao