CENECO Union Divided: Officers Denounce Unilateral Strike Notice
The Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) Union of Rational Employees (CURE) is facing internal turmoil after union president Felix Gepilga Jr. filed a notice of strike without consulting his fellow officers. This unilateral decision has sparked controversy, with Vice President Marbie Cabardo leading the opposition within the union.
Fractured Leadership and Unilateral Action
Cabardo expressed strong disappointment, stating that neither she nor any other union officer was informed about the strike notice. They only learned about it through social media, revealing a lack of communication within the union’s leadership. Cabardo criticized Gepilga’s actions as self-serving and devoid of transparency.
“Felix Gepilga filed the notice of strike without informing me as the Vice President and our elected officers,” Cabardo said. “He did not convene us or even ask for our input or discuss his decision to file it.”
This lack of consultation has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the strike notice filed with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE). Cabardo emphasizes that such a significant decision should have been made with the support and input of most union officers and members.
“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. As the Vice President, I was not recognized, and the existing, legitimate officers were not recognized,” Cabardo added.
Union Members Express Reservations
Gepilga’s unilateral action has created internal conflict and met resistance from a significant portion of the union membership. Concerns regarding the potential impact of a strike are widespread.
- Impact on Consumers: Many members worry about the potential disruptions and hardships a strike could cause for electricity consumers in the region.
- Unclear Demands: The specific issues the strike aims to address are unclear. A clearer picture of the union’s demands would be crucial to garnering more comprehensive support.
- Alternative Approaches: Some members believe there are more effective solutions than a strike. They may prefer pursuing alternative negotiation channels or exerting pressure on the CENECO board through other means.
Legal Action and Path Forward
Cabardo and other dissenting officers plan to take legal action against Gepilga’s decisions. This highlights the deep divisions within the union’s leadership. Cabardo emphasizes the need for the union’s direction to reflect the majority’s will and stresses the importance of mutual respect and collaborative decision-making within the union hierarchy.
“The lack of transparency and consultation surrounding the strike notice has strained these core principles, raising questions about the union’s internal governance and the validity of the planned action,” Cabardo stated.
Potential Consequences and Next Steps
- Weakened Bargaining Position: A divided union leadership weakens the union’s bargaining position with the CENECO board.
- Potential for Strike Failure: A strike without solid support from the membership is less likely to succeed and may lead to further frustration.
- Loss of Public Support: Public perception can be crucial in labor disputes. A lack of transparency and internal conflict within CURE could damage public support for the union’s cause.
The coming days and weeks will be crucial for CURE. The union must address the internal divisions and establish a clear communication strategy. Open discussions and a democratic process for decision-making are essential to rebuild trust and solidarity within the union. Additionally, CURE needs to clearly define its goals and present a unified front to the CENECO board and the public if it hopes to achieve a successful outcome.
More About CENECO and Negros Power:
Negros Power Extends Employment Opportunities to Ceneco Employees
CENECO Employees Gain Valuable Insights During Visit to MORE Power
