Enverga University Management, Union sign 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement

After an extensive two-month negotiation process, the Enverga University Management and the Samahan ng mga Guro at Manggagawa sa MSEUF-Lucena City signed the 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). 

The ceremonial signing marked the settlement's conclusion on December 28, 2023, and took place on January 17, 2024, solidifying a collaborative effort toward improving the University's academic and administrative workforce.

Dr. Benilda Villenas, Senior Vice President, led the negotiations for the management panel while Atty. Carmen Aldovino, Union President, represented the faculty and the non-teaching employees.

The commitment of both parties to the well-being of the faculty and the non-teaching employees was the highlight of the series of negotiations.

"The improvement of the salary and compensation package of both faculty and employees is part of the University’s thrust towards globalization. It was prioritized by the management and the Board of Trustees, leading to an unprecedented smooth negotiation flow between the management and union panels," stated Carlito M. Rodriguez, Vice President for Finance and concurrent Treasurer.

The CBA had several key provisions aimed at enhancing the overall work environment and ensuring the welfare of the University's academic and administrative staff. Some of the highlights included:

1. Salary Increase: Employees will benefit from a substantial salary increase of approximately 10%, retroactive July 2023.
2. Reclassification or Upgrading of Entry-level Pay: Selected non-clerical/technical positions will undergo a reclassification or upgrading of their entry-level pay, recognizing the evolving demands and responsibilities associated with these roles.
3. Provision for Summer Term Salary: College faculty will now receive compensation during the Summer Term, acknowledging the University’s continuous commitment to academic excellence beyond the regular academic semesters.
4. Health Welfare Assistance Program Improvement: A significant enhancement to the Health Welfare Assistance Program (HWAP) will provide additional support to faculty and employees, ensuring access to comprehensive health care benefits.
5. Monthly Personal Equity Retirement Account Contribution: The introduction of a monthly personal equity retirement account contribution will contribute to the long-term financial security of the University's retiring workforce.
6.  Increase in Bereavement Assistance: Recognizing the importance of support during challenging times, the agreement includes an increase in bereavement assistance to further aid staff in times of loss.

Dr. Esteve Adrian Estiva, Union Secretary, expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing a commitment to continuous improvement for the benefit of the entire academic community. 

"It was great that the management met a number of our proposals ensuring a successful negotiation, Dr. Estiva noted.

The signing of the CBA symbolizes a collaborative commitment between the University and the Union to create a more equitable and supportive work environment, fostering a positive atmosphere for academic and administrative excellence.

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The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) relevant to the signing of the 2023 Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) between Enverga University Management and the Samahan ng mga Guro at Manggagawa sa MSEUF-Lucena City are as follows:

• Decent Work and Economic Growth (SDG 8) -The CBA aims to improve the conditions of work for faculty and non-teaching employees by negotiating for better salaries, benefits, and overall work environment. This aligns with SDG 8, which promotes sustained, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all.
• Good Health and Well-being (SDG 3) - Provisions such as the enhancement of the Health Welfare Assistance Program (HWAP) contribute to promoting good health and well-being among the University's academic and administrative staff. Ensuring access to comprehensive health care benefits supports SDG 3's objective of ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.
• SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities (SDG 10) - The salary increase, reclassification or upgrading of entry-level pay, and other provisions in the CBA aim to reduce inequalities within the University's workforce by improving compensation and benefits for faculty and non-teaching employees. This aligns with SDG 10, which seeks to reduce inequality within and among countries.
• Partnerships for the Goals (SDG 17) - The successful negotiation and signing of the CBA demonstrate collaboration and partnership between the University management and the employee union. This collaboration is crucial for achieving sustainable development goals, as emphasized in SDG 17, which calls for strengthening global partnerships to support and achieve the ambitious targets of the SDGs.