Payroll reinstatement for VECOEU prexy stays

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Labor and Employment has denied for lack of merit the physical reinstatement prayed for by the former president of the Visayan Electric Company Employees Union.

In an order dated March 22, 2011, DOLE Secretary Rosalinda Baldoz dismissed Casmero Mahilum’s partial motion for reconsideration on her previous order that only granted payroll reinstatement.

Mahilum wanted physical reinstatement but Baldoz finds his argument wanting. Baldoz ordered in November 2010 the reinstatement of Mahilom in the company’s payroll following his termination in October 28, 2010 for loss of trust and confidence.

Mahilom argued that while Baldoz ordered status quo, his reinstatement was limited only in the payroll. According to him, what should have been maintained is the status quo prior to his dismissal, thus he should be reinstated to his former position.

VECO spokesperson Ethel Natera said the management welcomes the denial of Mahilum’s partial motion for reconsideration. She said they were expecting it as it was just a tactic to delay the resolution of the labor dispute with Mahilum hoping that he will continue receiving his salary without sweating.

Natera said they are now hoping that the legal process will go on smoothly as the DOLE also ordered the National Labor Relations Commission to proceed with the compulsory arbitration proceedings and resolve the present labor dispute with dispatch. – Mitchelle L. Palaubsanon/FPL (THE FREEMAN)