The general manager of the First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative, Inc. (FICELCO) is being recommended for the extension of his term beyond December 2022 when he is supposed to be compulsorily retired at age 65.
During the recent 43rd Annual General Membership Assembly last Sept. 3, 2022 at the Virac town plaza, former director Jorge Tabirara moved to approve a resolution requesting the National Electrification Administration (NEA) to extend the term of GM Engr. Raul Zafe for two years more.
According to reliable sources, Zafe is supposed to step down this December when he turns 65.
A member-consumer-owner allegedly stood up to oppose the measure but then Board President Dir. Rodolfo Vargas moved to approve the Tabirara motion after it was duly seconded, without asking the MCOs present to raise their hands.
Under NEA Memorandum No. 2018-003 providing for the revised retirement plan for general managers of electric cooperatives, the compulsory retirement age of a general manager is at 65 years old.
“Upon retirement (optional or compulsory), no request for extension of service shall be allowed,” the January 2018 memorandum states.
Capitol leaders are reportedly against the term extension, with Congressman Eulogio Rodriguez allegedly anticipating GM Zafe’s departure in just three months.
A source said the solon is backing an official of the National Power Corporation’s Catanduanes office for the GM post.