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CPA mulls lifting of reduced manhours
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Posted on Sep 17 1999
With little signs of improvement in its financial condition, the Commonwealth Ports Authority is studying the possibility of reinstating the 80-hour pay period, according to its executive director.
In a memorandum to employees, Carlos H. Salas commended the CPA staff for continuously striving to achieve excellence in carrying out their jobs despite the reduction in manhours.
“While the implementation of a 72-hour pay period has not been easy, I am happy to report that thanks to your dedication and commitment, service and safety have not suffered in the slightest degree,” said Salas.
In extending his appreciation to CPA employees, Salas noted their “unswerving commitment to excellence during these most trying of financial times. You have my most sincere appreciation and congratulations for a job well done. Quite simply, we couldn’t have made it this far without you.”
The ports authority has cut down the working hours of its employees from 80 to 72 hours per pay period starting April 1, 1999 which is expected to give CPA some $550,000 in savings for 12 months.
“While we are still in the planning stages, we are optimistic a complete 80-hour per pay period is a goal about to be realized,” said Salas.
With a $53 million debt to pay amid declining revenues, the ports authority immediately implemented cost-cutting measures to survive. At the same time, the CPA board approved an increase in airport passenger facility charge and landing fees as well as seaport rates and charges.
Every month since 1998, the ports authority has been incurring huge losses due to shrinking revenue brought about by the plunge in tourism economy since Asia’s financial crisis begun in July 1997.
