Xavier University and the XUGS Faculty Employees Labor Union (XUGSFELU) – ALU-TUCP signed their Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) last August 1, 2022.

The Central Administration Team (CAT) led by Chair, Fr. Ismael Jose III V. Chan-Gonzaga SJ, and the XUGSFELU Union Negotiation Panel led by Chair and President, Liz G. Abing, took ten (10) negotiation meetings to come to an agreement.

Fr. Chan-Gonzaga said he is grateful to the panel members both from the central administration and the union leadership “for coming together and sit down not as adversaries but of one mind and heart for the mission and betterment of the XUGS community.   It is truly different when we all sit down with the same goal beyond ourselves and hoping, dreaming together.   May this agreement be life-giving and not a vehicle to clip wings and stunt dreams.   Praying for better days ahead."

Ms Abing also expressed gratitude on behalf of XUGSFELU saying, "I would like to thank the Central Administration team with Fr. IJ for the wonderful CBA negotiation experience with XUGSFELU.   This agreement made by both parties is no doubt for the betterment of XUGS, all because of the unceasing support and understanding that Xavier Ateneo has shown, given, and blessed us with.   May the established openness continue as we collaborate and work for the best interests of all the XUGS teaching and non-teaching faculty."

 

Meantime, XU President Fr. Mars P. Tan SJ has announced the signing of the new agreement in a recent memo.  He thanked both XUGSFELU and the Central Administration negotiation teams for their mutual concern for Xavier Ateneo Grade School's sustainability.  He said that "both teams had agreed that the basis for the negotiations should be the percentage of the Tuition Fee Increment (TFI).  The gold standard is 70% and Xavier Ateneo and XUGSFELU agreed on 78%.”  Fr. Mars emphasized that the TFI is the most reliable and predictable source of income.

 

The CBA will be effective for five (5) years, from June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2027.