Outstanding City Hall staff to get salary hike in lieu of cash reward

CEBU, Philippines — In recognition of the most outstanding employees of Cebu City, a “step increment” is being proposed versus a one-time incentive.

The proposal was announced during the employees’ flag ceremony led by Mayor Michael Rama yesterday.

“Instead of cash award we will be proposing to PRAISE (Program on Awards for Service Excellent) a step increment,” said City Administrator Suzanne Ardosa.

Ardosa said, under such a scheme, it will be added to one’s salary in the next three years until the next step increment.

She assured that it is within the allowance policies of the Civil Service Commission.

“So mao na atong gi-propose para dili na one time reward but long term as a recognition for your good performance,” said Ardosa.

Ardosa said they will still discuss it again with the department heads along with the other activities intended for the Cebu City Charter Day celebration on February 24.

Mayor Rama explained further that this is much better than a one-time deal incentive as an increment is long term.

“Kanang increment, lasting na. Kung casual ka, ilabi na gayod mahimo kang regular, unsa mahitabo ana? I-adopt na siya. Inig-abot na sa retirement, dako kaayo na siyang factor,” said Mayor Rama.

Employees were also reminded to think of a long-term goal for their families and not only as short term.

“Wala man ta manrabaho sa City Hall tungod lang sa kwarta.  Nanrabaho ta…para sa atong pamilya.  Moistorya ta og pamilya, (pang-) long term; pero kung imo rang kaugalingon, hakog ka…short term ra,” stressed Rama.

Some employees were also expecting an announcement of a Charter Day bonus, but Rama instead told them to continue working well and prove their worth at the City Hall instead. — GMR (FREEMAN)