The Mandaue City Government has moved swiftly to grant year-end cash bonuses to its workforce, following a national directive from Malacañang. The city council expedited the legislative process to ensure employees receive their Service Recognition Incentive (SRI) and gratuity pay without delay.
Expedited Approval in Response to National Directive
This action was triggered by Administrative Order No. 40, signed by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on December 14, 2025. The order authorizes the grant of an SRI to regular government employees across the country as recognition for their dedication and performance.
Councilor Joel Seno, chairman of the Committee on Appropriation, Budget and Finance, confirmed that the Mandaue City Council received the signed orders just two days before taking action. Despite the tight timeline, the Local Finance Committee convened on December 15, 2025 to assess the financial requirements.
"This incentive is a recognition of the exemplary service rendered by our government employees here in Mandaue City," Seno stated. He emphasized that the SRI is a national grant to honor the hard work and commitment of public servants.
Special Session Ensures Timely Release
To comply fully and avoid any postponement, the council conducted its last regular session for the year to introduce the ordinance. It then held a special session on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, specifically to finalize the approval.
Councilor Seno explained that the fast-tracking was necessary so employees could receive their bonuses as soon as possible. The move was done under the instruction of Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede and in response to the directive of Mayor Thadeo Jovito 'Jonkie' Ouano.
Mayor Ouano had instructed concerned local offices to immediately fast-track the implementation of both Administrative Order 40 and Administrative Order 39. AO 39 provides gratuity pay for Job Order (JO) and Contract of Service (COS) workers.
Bonus Breakdown and Pro-Rata Details
Under the approved city ordinance, qualified regular employees of the Mandaue City government are set to receive a Service Recognition Incentive of P20,000.
Meanwhile, Job Order and Contract of Service workers will receive a gratuity pay of P5,000. The city clarified that employees who have rendered service for less than four months will receive a pro-rated amount, following existing guidelines.
City officials announced that the release of the bonuses is expected imminently, as all necessary legal and financial processes have been completed. The Mandaue City Government underscored that these incentives reflect its commitment to valuing the contributions of its entire workforce, especially those who have remained dedicated to public service throughout the year.
