Case Summary (G.R. No. L-17620)
Employment History and Union Activities
Tomas N. Aguirre started his tenure at Far Eastern University in 1948, initially earning P6.00 per hour. Eventually, his compensation progressed to P30.00 per class, averaging P500.00 to P600.00 monthly. Aguirre joined PACUP in June 1953, subsequently involving himself in union recruitment efforts, which seemingly led to his later treatment by the university, especially following his efforts to increase faculty membership in the union.
Allegations of Discrimination
In June 1954, Aguirre's teaching assignments ceased, which he contended were a direct consequence of his union activities. The university, however, argued that reduced enrollment was to blame for his lack of assignments. Additional evidence suggested that Aguirre was demoted from a full-time instructor to a reserved status, reducing his teaching load considerably, while other non-union colleagues continued to receive assignments.
Financial and Employment Details
From December 1953 until May 1954, Aguirre’s earnings varied, and his declaration stated that he was not assigned classes following the enrollment drop. Testimonies from university officials indicated that faculty assignments were dictated by factors such as seniority and teaching effectiveness. Nevertheless, Aguirre’s seniority relative to part-time instructors was not respected, implying possible retaliation against him for his union activities.
Resolutions by Educational Authorities
Despite Aguirre's grievances, he received support from the Department of Education through decisions in his favor that ordered the university to reinstate him and pay the salary differential for his reduced compensation. These findings underscored the university's failure to appropriately address its employment practices regarding Aguirre.
University Financial Performance
The university's financial records detailing profit margins from 1952 to 1956 countered the argument of reduced enrollment as a reason for Aguirre's job dismissal. The figures indicated a clear increase in profits, suggesting that the decision to lay off Aguirre could be rooted in his union involvement rather than financial necessity.
Other Employment Outcomes
After a change in Aguirre's status, he secured employment at the Philippine College of Commerce and later at the Central Bank of the Philippines. However, the court recognized that, while he had stable employment, the nature and status of his job at the Central Bank were not comparable to his previous full-time instructor position based on salary, responsibilities, and career growth potential.
Legal Proceedings and Decisions
Following Aguirre's formal complaint accusing the university of unfair labor practices, various motions were filed, and hearings ensued. The initial ruling found the university liable for unfair labor practices but did not grant Aguirre's reinstatement, citing his current employment as a valid position. However, up
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Case Background
- The Far Eastern University (referred to as the University) appealed a resolution from the Court of Industrial Relations which modified a previous decision.
- The case revolves around Tomas N. Aguirre, who became a faculty member at the University in 1948 and earned around P500.00 to P600.00 monthly.
- Aguirre joined the Philippine Association of Colleges and University Professors (PACUP) in June 1953 and began recruiting members, which led to fears of retaliation among other faculty members.
Aguirre's Employment and Union Activities
- Aguirre's initial employment was at P6.00 per hour, later transitioning to P30.00 per class.
- By September 1, 1953, he was classified as a full-time instructor with a fixed salary of P450.00 per month.
- His membership campaign for PACUP resulted in intimidation among faculty members who feared repercussions from the University.
- The University formed a committee in 1953 to classify faculty members, identifying Aguirre as a full-time instructor.
Changes in Aguirre's Employment Status
- From December 1953 to May 1954, Aguirre's earnings fluctuated, and by June 1954, he was no longer given teaching assignments.
- The University claimed decreased enrollment in Aguirre’s class as the reason for his lack of assignments, while Aguirre attributed it to his union activities.
- Aguirre's classification changed to "reserve