Petron insists it had met Bataan refinery union’s demands

MANILA, Philippines — Petron Corp. on Monday said it was saddened when its workers’ union at its refinery in Bataan recently staged a strike, denying the allegation that it did not comply with a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) signed last year.

Members and officers of the Bataan Refiners Union of the Philippines working at the Petron Bataan Refinery recently held a protest due to poor working conditions and alleged threats to employees.

“During the CBA negotiations, the company met their demands, and both management and union reached an agreement that protects the jobs of employees while allowing the company to stay competitive in these challenging times,” Petron said in a statement.

It pointed out that it has guaranteed increases that are “way above” what the oil industry offers. This is on top of salaries and benefits including overtime pay that the firm has also granted its employees.

“Specifically, our rank-and-file employees at the refinery get an average compensation of over P100,000.00 per month including overtime, allowances and non-cash benefits,” it said.

Petron, however, expressed hope that the issues would be resolved soon, saying that it welcomed the opportunity “to sit down and talk.”

“Petron remains committed to building a stronger future and promoting the welfare and best interest of all its employees,” the firm said.

/atm