Ceneco union split over strike notice

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Marbie Cabardo, the Vice President of the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (Ceneco) Union of Rational Employees (CURE), has publicly disavowed the notice of strike filed by Union President Felix Gepilga Jr., citing a lack of consultation with union officers.

Cabardo expressed dismay over the president’s decision to file unilaterally, learning about the move through social media rather than through official union channels.

“Felix Gepilga filed the notice of strike without informing me as the Vice President and our elected officers. He did not convene us or even ask for our input or discuss his decision to file it,” she stated, highlighting a breakdown in internal communication and decision-making.

This controversy within the union stems from a recent notice filed with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), which Cabardo and other union officers challenge, questioning its legitimacy due to the absence of wider union support.

The contention suggests rifts in the leadership structure, as Cabardo said, “I was hoping that he would convene us after winning and discuss this, but unfortunately, he did not convene us and did not show respect to us as officers.”

Many union members and officers have rallied against the strike, worrying about its impact on consumers and preferring to seek alternative dispute resolutions with Ceneco’s board.

Cabardo indicated that legal actions are being prepared to contest Gepilga’s unilateral decisions, underlining the need for decisions to reflect the majority view of the board and stressing the importance of mutual respect and collaborative decision-making.

“The lack of transparency and consultation around the strike notice has undermined these foundational principles, prompting questions about the union’s governance and the legitimacy of the proposed action,” added Cabardo.

The actions of Gepilga have not gone unnoticed by Power Watch Negros, which has vehemently condemned the intended labor strike.

Secretary-General Wennie Sancho detailed the potential dire consequences of a strike, from household disruptions to economic losses and threats to public welfare.

“This concerted action by the CURE is adverse to the interests and welfare of all electricity consumers,” Sancho said.

The situation is further complicated by the union’s apparent disregard for a “magnanimous and even bountiful offer” from Ceneco regarding their separation or retirement pay and a re-hiring preference with Negros Electric and Power Corp. (NEPC).

The union’s insistence on being automatically “absorbed” by NEPC suggests a reluctance to relinquish their current financial benefits, according to Sancho.

“They don’t care what will happen to us and our families as long as they get their unreasonable demand by launching a strike, regardless of the consequences.”

Sancho warned of the significant negative impact on the community, including potential economic losses and the interruption of critical services like healthcare, especially amid the ongoing water crisis in Bacolod City.