Bishop Slams 25 Months of Bonus in MWSS

MANILA, Sept. 1, 2010- A Catholic bishop criticized reports that officials of water utility MWSS received P384 million in bonuses and allowances last year.

Sorsogon Bishop Arturo Bastes said the excessive salaries and benefits of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System's employees is an abuse that must be investigated.

He said the 25 months of bonus last year plus their 12 months basic salary is a "form of corruption."

"They corrupt themselves... there is no reason for them to receive that amount," said Bastes.

Documents showed by the Senate committee on finance on Tuesday revealed that MWSS's board of trustees, corporate and regulatory offices received P384 million of bonuses and allowances in 2009.

In his first State of the Nation Address on July 26, President Aquino said that MWSS officials received P211.5 million in salaries and benefits.

"That's terrible. Millions are going hungry and poor and those guys who are doing nothing are given bonuses that big," Basted said.

"That should be stopped on the highest objection. Shame on them," he added. "I'm happy they are being investigated." (CBCPNews)