WORKERS' WOES. The Cebu International Port yard in Cebu City's Pier 6 in this undated photo. The Cebu Port Authority on Tuesday (Sept. 24, 2024) issued an official statement advising the private cargo-handling firm, Oriental Port and Allied Services Corporation, to settle a conflict with its workers so as not to hamper port operations and ensure continued safety at the port yard. (PNA file photo by John Rey Saavedra)
CEBU CITY – The Cebu Port Authority (CPA) on Tuesday advised the private cargo-handling company operating at the Cebu International Port to settle a conflict with its employees so as not to hamper port activities.
In an official statement, the CPA said it recognizes the current challenges faced by the Oriental Port and Allied Services Corporation (OPASCOR), the cargo-handling service provider for the 14-hectare CIP in Cebu City.
“We want to assure all port stakeholders that we are closely monitoring the situation and are prepared to take the necessary measures to ensure uninterrupted port operations, protect the safety and well-being of all port workers, and secure all facilities inside the port area,” the CPA statement read.
On Wednesday last week, over 200 workers, retirees, and shareholders of the OPASCOR cited alleged mismanagement and lack of accountability among officials.
In a gathering, they asked the officials, including OPASCOR’s chief executive officer Tomas Riveral, and general manager Florimae Velasco, to step down.
Dennis Arciaga, barangay captain of Tinago here who serves as the current president of Local 1 Union of OPASCOR workers, said their concerns have been left ignored for years.
He said they are demanding a board election which has reportedly not been done for 20 years.
The OPASCOR is yet to issue a statement.
Riveral, in a message to the Philippine News Agency, said he was referring the matter to the one in charge of the corporation’s media affairs.
"We are hoping for a swift resolution to this matter that serves the best interests of all involved," the port authority said. (PNA)
