The union of the Negros Occidental provincial government employees has vehemently denied “unfounded claims” that the union acts as a sycophant to politicians or department heads, asserting its independence and commitment to a merit-based system.
“We do not seek favor through submission or blind loyalty. Our union stands firmly on its own, guided by our by-laws, principles, and values, not by political or personal interests,” the Progressive Alliance of Capitol Employees (PACE) PACE said in a press statement on Thursday, Oct. 9.
The union, which represents 2,699 members, stressed that collaboration with the present administration is “essential to ensuring the effective delivery of public service, maintaining work standards, and securing the benefits that our employees rightfully deserve.”
PACE emphasized that it carries out its mandate fairly and independently, always prioritizing the collective good of its members.
In partnership with the Provincial Human Resource Management Office (PHRMO), PACE said it is committed to upholding a merit-based system in the hiring and promotion process.
“Every applicant who undergoes deliberation is evaluated based on a set of clear, objective, and standardized criteria,” the statement read, adding that the appointing authority ultimately selects the candidate “deemed most capable and trustworthy, as is their right and responsibility under the law.”
PACE categorically refuted “the malicious and misleading assertion that older or tenured employees are denied promotion unless politically aligned with the administration.”
“Such claims are not only baseless but also display a fundamental misunderstanding of how appointments work in both government and private institutions,” it said.
While tenure and loyalty are valued, performance, competence, and trust remain crucial factors in promotion decisions, PACE added.
The union said that an appointing officer, whether in public service or private enterprise, has the duty to select individuals who can meet the demands of the job and serve the public efficiently.
“PACE is committed to fairness, transparency, and integrity. We will continue to serve our members without fear, favor, or compromise,” it added.*