SEN. Joseph Victor Ejercito yesterday called on the San Juan City government to release the “terminal pay” of more than 20 retired employees of the city that has been delayed for more than three years.
In a privilege speech, Ejercito said the retired employees approached him last December to seek his help so that their benefits can be immediately given to them.
Ejercito said the city government needs to pay more than P40 million in benefits to the more than 20 retired city government employees.
He said the retired employees have been identified as supporters of the Estrada family.
“What the retired employees of San Juan are experiencing is the sad picture of what local politics looks like in our country each time there is a change in leadership — it is divisive and with political color,” Ejercito said.
He said he was able to talk with San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora who said the retirement benefits are not covered in the city’s appropriations, a claim that was not accepted by Ejercito since all benefits due local government employees are included in the annual budget.
He said the delay in release of retirement benefits is “unacceptable” since RA 10154 states that retirement benefits should be released within 30 days from the actual retirement of the employee.
Ejercito reminded all local executives that they cannot prolong the release of benefits due their retired employees.
“Is this how you thank those who served your city? They have given their all just for your city. Your city has been developed all because of their help. You don’t owe them a sense of gratitude but yet you owe them money!” he added.
