Ilocos norte: The Ilocos Norte government has made significant changes to its workforce structure by eliminating 14 long-vacant government positions and establishing 66 new roles under the leadership of Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos. This strategic move aims to enhance the efficiency and responsiveness of the provincial administration.
According to Philippines News Agency, provincial board member Saul Paulo Lazo highlighted that the decision to abolish the 12 plantilla and two casual Administrative Aide I positions was based on their prolonged vacancy and lack of relevance. Draft Provincial Ordinance No. 2022-07-001, certified as urgent by Governor Araneta-Marcos, was passed by the provincial board to facilitate these changes. Plantilla posts refer to permanent government positions funded through the annual General Appropriations Act.
In tandem with this restructuring, Provincial Ordinance No. 2022-07-002 was approved, paving the way for the creation of 66 new government positions. These roles are a mix of permanent and co-terminus positions, intended to bolster various offices, including the Office of the Governor, Vice Governor, Provincial Information Office, and several government-run hospitals across Ilocos Norte.
Leah Blas, the provincial budget officer, assured that the financial resources are available to support these new positions, with the budget being allocated from the supplemental fund. She further confirmed that the Personal Services (PS) cap limit remains within the budgetary constraints.
Fe Siazon, the human resource management officer, informed that there are currently 1,452 employees in the provincial government, which includes 696 permanent, 210 casual, and 546 job order employees. Siazon emphasized the need for multi-tasking among employees to cover unfilled positions.
Governor Araneta-Marcos noted the necessity for additional workforce following discussions with provincial government heads, particularly in light of upcoming retirements. She pointed out that the accounting office requires more staff to prevent delays in salary disbursements, ensuring smooth operational processes within the government.
