SLSU joins National SUC Faculty Convention, intensifies commitment to shared governance
Southern Luzon State University (SLSU) faculty represented the three-day National Convention and General Assembly of Faculty Regents and Trustees of Philippine State Universities and Colleges (SUCs), anchored on the theme, “One Vision, One Voice: United for Shared Governance,” at Mandurriao, Iloilo City, September 28 to 30.
Spearheaded by the Philippine Association of Faculty Regents, Inc. (PAFRT) in collaboration with Iloilo Science and Technology University Faculty and Employees Federation, Inc., the Convention brought together Faculty Regents and Trustees from SUCs across the country to strengthen their understanding of governance responsibilities.
Among the SLSU representatives are Faculty Regent Gino A. Cabrera (SLSU Faculty Association), Emma O. Reyes (SLSU Employees Association), Noreen P. Echague, EdD (SLSU Faculty and Employees Club), Maurine C. Panergo (SLSU FA), Amalia E. Almazol, PhD (SLSU FA), Clarita A. Caja (SLSU FEC), Monette G. Suarez (SLSU FA) and Carolina D. Dayapan (SLSU FEC).
The opening program highlighted the future of Philippine higher education and the importance of collaboration among the Commission on Higher Education, Congress, SUC leaders, and Faculty Regents and Trustees. This was followed by plenary sessions covering public sector unionism, collective negotiation, higher education consultations, and public service.
Another highlight of the event was the consultation and dialogue conducted by the Alliance of Concerned Teachers (ACT) party-list on the issue of overtime/overload pay and the proposed increase of the Personnel Economic Relief Allowance (PERA) rate to ₱5000 per month.
Additionally, the assembly requested the reclassification of Instructor I and Assistant Professor I positions to Assistant Professor II, which aimed at fast-tracking career entry steps. They also agreed to create a Technical Working Group (TWG) to study and develop a proposed system for cross-ranking to the rank of Full Professor.
The participation of SLSU faculty representatives strengthens the commitment of the university to shared governance and faculty welfare, and institutional development.