By: Ms. Nancy H. Micosa – Deputy Section Manager – Human Resources & General Administration
Since its establishment in 1973, Asian Transmission Corporation has been dedicated to fostering a collaborative workplace through unionization. Recently, the company celebrated a significant milestone with the successful conclusion of Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiations with three labor unions: the Bisig ng Asian Transmission Labor Union (BATLU), the Asian Transmission Non-Supervisory Labor Union (ATNLU), and the Asian Transmission Corporation Supervisory Union (ATCSU).
The journey toward these seventeen agreements began for our rank-and-file unions, BATLU and ATNLU, in December 2023. Thanks to the sincere efforts of both management and the unions, the negotiations culminated in the ninth meeting, with the agreements being finalized on February 27, 2024, for ATNLU and February 29, 2024, for BATLU.
The second Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) negotiation for our Supervisor Union, ATCSU took place over several sessions, starting in March and concluding with the seventh meeting on May 15, 2024.
In preparation for these negotiations, Management made a deliberate effort to build strong, collaborative relationships with the unions and foster a mutual understanding of the current situation. This was achieved through a series of key initiatives, starting with a traditional Labor-Management Cooperation (LMC) teambuilding event at Camayan Beach Resort and Hotel in Subic, Zambales. Held on September 22 to 23, 2023, the event was attended by all union officers, the management team, and selected support members, further reinforcing teamwork and open communication.
Additionally, in November 2023, Management organized the Exposure Trip to Japan (Mitsubishi Motors Corporation Tokyo Headquarters and Kyoto Plant) from November 14 to 17, 2023. The trip was attended by seven union officers— Messrs. June Panghulan, Manolito Pagaspas, and Oliver Caringal from BATLU; Messrs. Rolly Stephen Vergara and Michael Andrew Umali from ATNLU; and Messrs. Mc Gregore Villanueva and Manuel Legarda from ATCSU as well as four members of the Management team: Mr. Manabu Shimoda, Atty. Rose Lynn-Zara Coloma, Mr. Eric Joseph Abriam, and Ms. Nancy Micosa. This trip provided both parties with a valuable opportunity to observe best practices, exchange ideas, and strengthen the collaborative efforts ahead of the negotiations.
Through diligent discussions and a sincere commitment from both the Management Negotiation Panel, led by Atty. Rose Lynn-Coloma, and Union Officers like President June Panghulan (BATLU), Rolly Stephen Vergara (ATNLU), and Mc. Gregore Villanueva (ATCSU), the negotiations concluded successfully. The focus was on enhancing the company’s productivity while ensuring employee welfare, resulting in a smooth and productive process.
This successful negotiation reflects the dedication of all parties in creating a positive and productive work environment, setting the stage for a bright future for both employees and the company. Characterized by open communication, active listening, and mutual respect, the discussions concluded with both sides acknowledging their efforts and commitment to employee welfare.
The official CBA signing took place on August 22, 2024, at Vikings Buffet Restaurant in SM BF Parañaque, attended by both Management and Union teams. To commemorate this achievement, a free lunch was distributed to all employees and business partners at ATC on August 23, 2024, fostering a sense of community and appreciation among all stakeholders.
