• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Marbie Cabardo, the vice president of the Central Negros Electric Cooperative (CENECO) Union of Rational Employees (CURE), clarified that the decision of union president Felix Gepilga to unilaterally file a notice of strike was done without consulting the union’s officers, stressing that they only learned about it through social media.
Cabardo, who criticized Gepilga’s actions, accused him of making decisions based on personal motives, and excluding other union officers from the process.
He did not convene us or even ask for our input or discuss his decision to file it, she stressed.
The unilateral approach of Gepilga has caused conflicts within the union, as Cabardo questioned the legitimacy of the notice filed with the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).
Cabardo believes that such a significant decision should have involved broader support from the 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,” she added.
In response to Gepilga’s actions, many union members and officers have opposed the proposed strike. Their concerns primarily revolve around the potential negative impact on consumers, a lack of clarity on the key issues, and a preference for resolving the underlying problems with the CENECO board through alternative channels, she added.
Cabardo further said that they are preparing legal action against Gepilga’s decisions, emphasizing the need for the union’s direction to reflect the majority decision of the board and highlighting the importance of mutual respect and a collaborative decision-making process.
She also underscored the importance of effective communication and consultation among the union officers.
“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 further said.*
