On December 5, 2024, the Angeles City government distributed ₱3,000 in year-end gratuity to 3,484 Contract of Service (COS) employees as part of Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr.’s initiative to acknowledge their dedicated service. This gesture aimed to show appreciation for their consistent efforts in serving the people of Angeles City.
Mayor Lazatin highlighted the crucial role that COS employees play in the city’s administration, calling them the true assets of the government. “Ang mga kawani po ng gobyerno lalo na po ang mga COS ang kaantabay natin sa pagbababa ng mga serbisyo sa mga bara-barangay,” he said, underscoring their importance in delivering public services effectively.
Along with their cash incentives, employees were given Christmas hams and rice packages on the same day, adding to the festive spirit. This year-end distribution of bonuses is not new, as it began under Mayor Lazatin’s leadership in 2020, demonstrating his commitment to supporting city employees and their families.
Flordeliza Santos, President of the Association of Government Employees for a New Dynamic Angeles City (AGENDA), expressed her gratitude for the continued support provided by the mayor’s administration. “Maraming salamat po. Maraming pamilya na naman po ang matutuwa sa uwing year-end gratuity ng ating mga COS employees,” Santos said, emphasizing the positive impact this initiative has on many families.
Rico Lacanlale, a Civil Security Unit employee, shared his appreciation for the benefits he receives, particularly the rice and holiday ham. “Nagpapasalamat ako sa lahat ng benepisyo lalo na sa bigas na meron kaming natatanggap para makaraos tsaka kagaya ng ginagawa ni Mayor Pogi na activity sobrang nakakatouch lahat ng benepisyo na binibigay niya lalo na sa buong Angeles sa mga nagtatrabaho sa mga senior at marami pang iba,” Lacanlale said.
Arn Lagazo, a six-year Command Center Supervisor, also praised Mayor Lazatin’s leadership, describing it as excellent. “The best si mayor natin from 6 yrs maganda pamamalakad tapos di lang bonus ang meron may ham at bigas din kahit na cos lang kami,” he stated.
Corazon Rivera, who has been a street sweeper for 20 years with the Environmental Management System, expressed her heartfelt thanks. “Mabait si Mayor Pogi, gustong-gusto namin siya kung pwede nga di na namin siya palitan eh. Sobrang laking pasasalamat namin sa kanya,” Rivera said, reflecting the deep appreciation of the city’s workforce for the mayor’s efforts.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
