Source: https://www.scribd.com/document/141117158/Contract-of-Service-The-Case-of-Mwsi
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Republic of the Philippines SUPREME COURT Manila EN BANC G.R. No. 154472 June 30, 2005 ALEXANDER R. LOPEZ, HERMINIO D.
PEÑA, SALVADOR T. ABUEL, GEORGE F. CABRERA, JOEL M. CARREON, DAMASO M. CERVANTEX, JR., RICARDO V. CUEVAS, ROBERTO S. DAGDAG, IRENEO V. DURAY, OMER S. ESPIRIDION, MANOLO V. FORONDA, RONITO R. FRIAS, ANGEL C. GARCIA, VICTORINO A. ILAGAN, DENNIS S. LEGADOS, MIGUEL J. LOPEZ, EMMANUEL R. MERILLO, EDGAR E. NATARTE, MAMERTO S. NEPOMUCENO, MARVIN R. PADURA, ROMEO C. RAMILO, ALBERTO R. RAMOS, JR., RONALDO A. SARMIENTO, ARMANDO S. SIONGCO, JOSE TEODY P. VELASCO, RICO P. VILLANUEVA, SAMUEL L. ZAPATERO, EDGARDO D. AGUDO, ROBERTO A. ARAÑA, BENJAMIN ASUNCION, JULIAN C. BACOD, EDWIN N. BORROMEO, ALBERTO T. BULAONG, DANIEL CADAÑOM, ROBERTO S. CAYETANO, ALFREDO C. CLAVIO, EDGARDO A. DABUET, NEIL DAVID, ALEXANDER B. ESTORES, NOEL GUILLEN, RODOLFO MAGNO, REY MANLEGRO, ROMEO V. MORALES, ROSAURO NADORA, EUGENIO M. ORITO, RONILO P. PAREDES, ADGARDO R. PINEDA, CARLITO SAMARTINO, ARTURO C. SARAOS, JR., JOHNEL L. TORRIBIO, ANTONIO A. VERGARA, JIMMY C. UNGSON, NOEL D. AMOYO, VIRGILIO L. AZARCON, RICARDO M. BROTONEL, EMERALDO C. CABAYA, JULIE G. CHAN, LUIS C. CLAVIO, LUIS T. CANIZO, ERNESTO F. DAVID, EDGAR B. DE VERA, REYNALDO A. DUMLAO, ARTURO R. DYCHITAN, ROMAN S. FAJARDO, BERNARDINO B. MACALDO, ROMEO D. MANASIS, JR., MARIO R. MANGALINDAN, VICTORIANO C. MARTINEZ, LEONARDO D. MIRALLES, ROGELIO E. PACER, ROSENDO L. PANGILINAN, NOLI H. POLINAG, DIOSDADO M. PUNZALAN, REYNALDO C. GATPO, CIRILO M. SANTOS, RAMON A. ZAMBRANA, PIO L. ASTORGA, ROLANDO G. CAGALINGAN, ANGELITO A. CAUDAL, FRANCISCO S. DELOS SANTOS, CARLOS E. LOMIBAO, ROMEO S. MALABANAN, LIBERATO B. MANGENTE, JULIAN M. MARTINEZ, BERNARDO S. MEDINA, MELVIN R. MENDEZ, ALBERT C. MIRADOR, RENEE S. OCAMPO, DAVID J. PASCUA, AMORSOLO M. PILARTA, ROLANDO C. REYES, GAVINO SAN GABRIEL, JR., PERCON F. SISON, PLARIDEL L. TANGLAO, RUBEN R. TAÑEDO, JR., RENATO G. TARUC, RONALDO D.C. VENTURA, ANGEL L. VERTUCIO, ERWIN T. VIDAD, WILLIAM M. AGANAON, ALEX P. MANABAT, FRANCISCO ALMONTE, RODRIGO C. ANTONIO, DOUGLAS R. AQUINO, REMEGIO R. ATIENZA, ABRAHAM C. BALICANTE, MELENCIO M. BAGNGUIS, JR., GERARDO T. BULAONG, MELITANTE I. CASTRO, MEDARDO S. CATACUTAN, VIRGILIO T. CATUBIG, JOSE S. CHIONG, NEL T. COLOBONG, FELIPE C. COLLADO, RANDY T. CORTIGUERRA, ANTONIO D. DELA CRUZ, JESUS C. DINGLE, EDGARDO N. GARCIA, CELSO Z. GOLFO, NONITO V. FERNANDEZ, LARRY HIDALGO, FRANCISCO B. JAO, JR., CARLOS P. LAGLIVA, RICO L. LARRACAS, PEDRO V.
OSMUNDO S. VICTOR P. wherein the former agreed to collect from the concessionaires of MWSS. MANUEL C. JOSE ROMMEL VILLAMOR. ZAFARALLA. AUGUSTUS V. retirement and terminal leave pay. which . FAUSTO S. SUAREZ. assessments of rents for water. EFREN VELASCO. VILLANUEVA. BENJAMIN TALAVERA. VICTA. OSCAR U. METROPOLITAN WATERWORKS AND SEWERAGE SYSTEM. SOLIS. ERNESTO R. TIBAY. effectively terminating the contracts of service between petitioners and MWSS. ZAPATERO. they were refused said benefits. JR. but not petitioners. HILARIO L. LEONARDO C. VIVENCIO B. which affirmed in toto the Civil Service Commission’s Resolutions2 denying petitioners’ claim for severance. TANDOC. vs. VALDEZ. J. RICARDO S. DECISION TINGA. sewer and/or plumbing services which the MWSS bills from time to time.-G. TAN. CHARLIE P. JOSE C. In its Resolution dated 1 July 1999. HORACIO L. a uniform feature of the last three Constitutions including the present one. By virtue of an Agreement. VALDEZ. 55263 entitled Alexander R. Instead. OLIVER P. stating that petitioners were engaged by MWSS through a contract of service. SP NO. ZAPITER. is outstanding in its uniqueness and as a mandate for judicial activism. fees. TOLENTINO. except those who had retired or opted to remain with the latter. v. MWSS relying on a resolution5 of the Civil Service Commission (CSC) that contract-collectors of the MWSS are not its employees and therefore not entitled to the benefits due regular government employees.3 petitioners were engaged by the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) as collectors-contractors.RAMIRO M. CRUZ. RUBEN GALANG. TORRES. REYNALDO BORJA. and Benpress-Lyonnaise. et al. PASTOR M. Lopez.: Take not from the mouth of labor the bread it has earned. Thomas Jefferson The constitutional protection to labor. THE HEIRS OF ESTEBAN BALDOZA. Regular employees of the MWSS were paid their retirement benefits. MWSS entered into a Concession Agreement with Manila Water Service. VALENCIA. FERDINAND VILLANUEVA.R.A. charges.6 the CSC denied their claims. Inc. EDMUNDO D. petitioners. Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System.. This petition asks for the review of the Court of Appeals’ D E C I S I O N1 in C. COENE C. REY DE VERE TIONGCO. VILLANUEVA. TAN. ROBERTO L. wherein the collection of bills was transferred to said private concessionaires. Regular employees of the MWSS. TAÑEDO.4 In 1997. TICSAY. Petitioners filed a complaint with the CSC. respondents. CRISANTO CAGALINGAN and ADRIANO VICTORIA. were absorbed by the concessionaires.
and/or contrary to the evidence on record.16 Hence. and should be read and interpreted according to its literal sense. Series of 1993.13 Aggrieved. 38. as per the terms of the agreement. 1999 stands. However. unlike contractual and plantilla appointments. et al. since their services were not supported by duly approved appointments.8 Moreover. 99-1384 dated July 1. hence. the Court of Appeals held that the Agreement entered into by petitioners and MWSS was clear and unambiguous.21 Lastly.12 The CSC held.explicitly provides that a bill collector-contractor is not an MWSS employee. the CSC stated that contract services/job orders are not considered government services. this is not without prejudice to whatever rights and benefits they may have under the New Labor Code and other laws. The Court of Appeals held that no other evidence was adduced by petitioners to substantiate their claim that their papers were forwarded to the CSC for attestation and approval. the Court of Appeals narrowed down the issues presented by petitioners as follows: Whether or not the CSC erred in finding that petitioners are not contractual employees of the government and.20 Further. petitioners were not MWSS employees. petitioners are not entitled to the separation and/or retirement benefits that they are claiming.15 Affirming and generally reiterating the ruling of the CSC.11 According to the CSC. the Court of Appeals held that petitioners were exempt from compulsory membership in the GSIS.14 In its D E C I S I O N.17 It added that in any event.submitted to the concessionaire.10 Petitioners’ claims for retirement benefits and terminal leave pay were likewise denied. the CSC specifically stated that "contract collectors are not MWSS employees and therefore not entitled to severance pay.7 Relying on Part V of CSC Memorandum Circular No. based on misapprehension of facts. which do not have to be submitted to the CSC for approval. CSC Resolution No.23 . it found that petitioners were unable to show that they have contractual appointments duly attested by the CSC. is hereby denied. while the former were not. are not entitled to severance pay. Having made no monthly contributions remitted to the said office."18 The Court of Appeals held that petitioners are not similarly situated as the petitioner in the case of Chua v. Petitioners sought reconsideration of the CSC Resolution. if any. the CSC stated that petitioners. are not entitled to retirement and separation benefits. thus: WHEREFORE. petitioners filed a petition for review under Rule 43 of the Rules of Court with the Court of Appeals. as early as 26 June 1996. not being permanent employees of MWSS and not included in the list .9 In addition. petitioners failed to present any proof that their appointments were contractual appointments submitted to the CSC for its approval. which was however denied by the CSC on 17 September 1999. the motion for Reconsideration of Alexander Lopez.22 Petitioners now assert that the Court of Appeals rendered a decision not in accord with law and applicable jurisprudence. Accordingly. petitioners do not have creditable service for purposes of retirement. Civil Service Commission19 since the contractual appointment was submitted to and approved by the CSC.
37 To further strengthen their case.25 Petitioners claim that they were employees of the MWSS. foregoing premises considered.27 They stress that they have never provided collection services to customers as an independent business. they add that with the nature and extent of their work at the MWSS. NWSA Consolidated Labor Unions. they served as collectors of MWSS only. they claim that by MWSS’ own acts.36 Should there be doubt as to their status as employees. the Commission resolves to rule that the Contractual-Collectors of the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) are entitled to loyalty awards. While styled as individual contracts/agreements. do not appear to have been submitted to the CSC for approval. . petitioners refer to CSC Resolution 92-2008 dated 8 December 1992.29 The "commissions" were determined or computed by MWSS and paid to the collectors by payroll every fifteenth (15th) and last day of every month. They cite as manifestations of control the training requirements. cash gift. petitioners were its employees. petitioners presented two (2) sample agreements.35 In view of the cited documents. which referred to the contract-collectors as employees with corresponding service records.26 Moreover.34 There were also "Records of Appointment".Petitioners allege that while their hiring was made to appear to be on contractual basis. To support its claim. as well as the latter’s power to transfer collectors from one branch to another. the contracts evidencing such hiring were submitted to and approved by the CSC. collectors were given. In addition to the commission.30 Petitioners claim that bill collectors were historically regarded as employees of National Waterworks and Sewerage Authority (NAWASA).33 Likewise.s) and certifications of employment issued by MWSS in their favor.D. petitioners assert that MWSS is estopped from denying their employment with the agency. and received basic pay termed as "commissions" from which MWSS deducted withholding tax. WHEREFORE. thirteenth (13th) month pay. however.28 They were provided with uniforms and identification cards. the forerunner of MWSS.32 wherein this Court supposedly declared the bill collectors of NAWASA as its employees and the commissions received by said collectors as salary. petitioners invoke the rule of liberal construction in favor of labor. The fact that they were being hired directly and paid on commission basis by MWSS itself is indicative that they are government employees and should be entitled to the incentive awards. traveling allowance. the mandated procedures to be followed in making collections. hazard pay. MWSS’ close monitoring of their performance.31 They cite the case of National Waterworks and Sewerage Authority v.. performance. Later contracts. they point to the identification cards (I. meal allowance and productivity pay. among others. In fact. and that the latter exercised control over them. petitioners insist that the same were actually treated by the MWSS as appointment papers.24 both stamped "approved" and signed by CSC Regional Directors. and the constitutional policy of protection to labor. et al. To support this contention. mid-year and anniversary bonuses. which states in part: . they applied individually and were hired by MWSS one by one.38 . . .
We find for the petitioners. MWSS states that the commission given to petitioners does not fall within the definition of compensation as provided in Presidential Degree No.39 Thus..48 On the grant of thirteenth (13th) month pay and other benefits to petitioners. MWSS claims that these were mere acts of benevolence and generosity.s. retirement and terminal leave pay. petitioners claim that by MWSS’ and CSC’s own acts and declarations. more so if the entity’s function is impressed with public service.The same resolution was made the basis of the MWSS’ memorandum declaring contractcollectors government employees or personnel entitled to salary increases pursuant to the Salary Standardization Law I & II. MWSS claims that it is but logical for any entity which has contracted the services of another to orient the latter before actual performance of the service.41 wherein Chua. they were made to believe that they were employees of MWSS and as such were government employees.47 As for the training and orientation undergone by petitioners. 38 Series of 1993. MWSS states that none of these requirements invades the collector’s prerogative to adopt their own method/strategy in the matter of collection.43 For its part. The fact that collectors were given a regular time for remittance should likewise not be considered as a form of control. therefore.46 It adds that the issuance of I. . the issue to be resolved is whether or not petitioners were employees of the MWSS and. petitioners claim moral damages for the alleged serious disturbance they suffered as a result of the denial of their claims.45 or in the definition of the term under the Revised Administrative Code either. Petitioners argue that in the same manner.44 With respect to the matter of payment of wages. having observed that Chua was hired and re-hired in four (4) successive projects during a span of fifteen (15) years. This Court. they are entitled to their claimed benefits.42 In addition to the retirement/separation/terminal leave pay prayed for. MWSS avers that it has the authority to contract the services of another who is considered not its employee. et al. consequently.D. Citing CSC Memorandum Circular No. Civil Service Commission. in view of their considerable length of service to MWSS. a coterminus employee of the National Irrigation Administration. was deemed a regular employee for purposes of retirement pay.49 Pertinently.D.40 Petitioners invoke the case of Chua v. MWSS denies the existence of employer-employee relationship between itself and petitioners. the MWSS avers that the Court of Appeals did not err in sustaining the resolutions of the CSC denying petitioners’ claim for entitlement to severance. certificates of recognition and loyalty awards as well as the grounds for termination of the Agreement could hardly be considered as control as the same had no relation to the means and methods to be employed by petitioners in collecting payments for MWSS. 1146 (P. They also pray for the award of attorney’s fees. 1146). sought to recover early retirement benefits but was denied the same. entitled to the benefits they claim.
pure and simple. should set the example in upholding the rights and interests of the working class. as employers. Series of 1993. extends to all of labor¾local and overseas. 4. namely: (1) whether the alleged employer has the power of selection and engagement of an employee. stating that while some functions may have been contracted out by a government agency. categorically made the distinction between contract of services/job orders and contractual and plantilla appointment. . and (4) whether the employee was paid wages. which allowed the crediting of services for purposes of retirement only for such services supported by duly approved appointments. . there is no reason not to apply this principle in favor of workers in the government. the Court has consistently adhered to the four-fold test. Termination and Penal Clauses. the persons contracted are not entitled to the benefits due to regular government employees. Although termed as causes for termination of the Agreement. Under the Agreement.56 For purposes of determining the existence of employer-employee relationship. MWSS may terminate it if the "Collector-Contractor" does or fails to do any of the following: Article VII – Duration. Subsequently. MWSS wielded its power of selection when it contracted with the individual petitioners.The Court has invariably affirmed that it will not hesitate to tilt the scales of justice to the labor class for no less than the Constitution dictates that "the State . the control test is the most important element. the CSC issued other resolutions applying the above-mentioned circulars. Republic Act No. This was followed by CSC Memorandum Circular No. The same goes true for the power to dismiss.51 Protection to labor.52 Besides. The MWSS is a government owned and controlled corporation with its own charter. it has been said. a review of the same shows that the grounds indicated therein can similarly be grounds for termination of employment. including government-owned and controlled corporations. (2) whether he has control of the employee with respect to the means and methods by which work is to be accomplished. as in this case."50 It is committed to this policy and has always been quick to rise to defense in the rights of labor. Series of 1994. its actuations show that they are its employees. Despite the obvious attempt of MWSS to categorize petitioners as mere service providers. 6234. (3) whether he has the power to dismiss. shall protect the rights of workers and promote their welfare. by entering into contracts for services. The government. A review of the circumstances surrounding the case reveals that petitioners are employees of MWSS. .55 CSC Memorandum Circular No. not employees.53 As such. in the public and private sectors. declaring that services rendered under contracts of services and job orders are non-government services which do not have to be submitted to the CSC for approval. undertaking separate contracts or agreements. organized and unorganized. 38.57 Of the four. it is covered by the civil service54 and falls under the jurisdiction of the Civil Service Commission.
or changes any figure on the bills or remittance receipt for purposes of defrauding either the concessioner or the MWSS. failure to collect the payments of customers or remit the collections constitutes neglect of duty. alterations or changing of figures in the fees or collection receipts amounts to fraud. and (e) Fails to comply with any of the undertakings as provided for in this Agreement. alters. Obviously.. (c) Is discourteous. – An employer may terminate an employment for any of the following causes: (a) Serious misconduct or willful disobedience by the employee of the lawful orders of his employer or representative in connection with his work. (b) Erases.. arrogant or his conduct is inimial [sic] to the good name or image of the MWSS.282. In case of termination of his services for any irregularity. (c) Fraud or willful breach by the employee of the trust reposed in him by his employer or duly authorized representative. the Labor Code enumerates the just causes for termination of employment. and (e) Other causes analogous to the foregoing. dishonest. Termination by Employer. Lack of courtesy. 58 (Emphasis Supplied) On the other hand. there shall be no prejudice against any criminal action for which he may be liable. (b) Gross and habitual neglect by the employee of his duties. .. dishonesty and arrogance are practically the same as misconduct.. and the Manual of Procedures mentioned in Article II hereof. Making erasures. thus: Art. (d) Commission of a crime or offense by the employee against the person of his employer or any immediate member of his family or his duly authorized representative. (a) Fails to collect at least eighty percent (80%) of bills issued within three (3) months from commencement of this Agreement or ninety percent (90%) within six (6) months after effectivity of this Agreement. (d) Fails to remit collections daily or to return uncollected bills daily.
and for the enhancement of its efficient operation.68 While . MWSS makes an issue out of the proviso in the Agreement that specifically denies the existence of employer-employee relationship between it and petitioners." thus petitioners are not its employees.On the issue of remuneration.61 Significantly. and other bonuses. The employment status of a person is defined and prescribed by law and not by what the parties say it should be. to wit: COLA. excluding per diems. It is not essential for the employer to actually supervise the performance of duties of the employee. or for services rendered or to be rendered. expansion and development. the additional benefits were granted with the same motivation as good managers anywhere else have—to foster a good working relationship with the bill-collectors and incentivize them to raise the high level of their performance even higher. namely.59 which is "the basic pay or salary received by an employee. pursuant to his employment appointments. MWSS claims that the compensation received by petitioners does not fall under the definition of wages as provided in Section 2(i) of P. that it is the remuneration. More so since MWSS is a government owned and controlled corporation created for the "proper operation and maintenance of waterworks system to insure an uninterrupted and adequate supply and distribution of potable water for domestic and other purposes and the proper operation and maintenance of sewerage systems. emergency. meal. It is axiomatic that the existence of an employer-employee relationship cannot be negated by expressly repudiating it in an agreement and providing therein that the employee is "not an MWSS employee"66 when the terms of the agreement and the surrounding circumstances show otherwise. overtime pay and allowances. Obviously. The disposition of MWSS’ income is limited to the payment of its contractual and statutory obligations. cash gift. for work done or to be done. it is enough that the former has a right to wield the power. the control test merely calls for the existence of the right to control. operating on the a priori premise or presumption that the recipient is already classified as an employee. MWSS granted petitioners benefits usually given to employees. hazard pay. or to disburse funds not otherwise authorized by law or its charter. bonuses. If MWSS was impelled by some force to give the benefits to petitioners. Petitioners rendered services to MWSS for which they were paid and given similar benefits due the other employees of MWSS. relevant and appropriate is the definition of wages in the Labor Code.60 The "commissions" due petitioners were based on the bills collected as per the schedule indicated in the Agreement. simply begs the question. it must have been the force of good business sense. It is hard to imagine that MWSS was simply moved by the spirit of benevolence and generosity when it granted liberal benefits to petitioners. Now the aspect of control. The provision is a simple statement of meaning. This assertion.D. and traveling allowances. and not the exercise thereof.63 We are not impressed. however.62 In an unabashed bid to claim credit for itself. On the other hand."64 Its main function is to provide basic services to the public.65 It was not in a position to distribute hard-earned income of the State merely to give expression to its supposed altruistic impulse. MWSS professes that these additional benefits were its acts of benevolence and generosity. 1146.67 In addition. however designated. and does not lay down any basis or standard for determining who are employees and who are not.
77 In that case. a concessionaire of MWSS. Suffice it to say. MWSS had free reign over the transfer of bill collectors from one branch to another.Procedure of Collection The procedure and/or manner of the collection of bills to be followed shall be in accordance with Provisions of the Manual of Procedures adopted on November 1. Contrary to MWSS’ assertion that petitioners were "free to adopt (their) own method/strategy in the matter of collection".74 Likewise. which is made an integral part of this Agreement as Annex "A. VI of the Agreement states: Art. providing them with I. All these indicate that MWSS controlled the working hours of petitioners. Inc. First Classic Courier Services. (ACGI) which was contracted by Manila Water to collect charges.75 It also deducted and remitted petitioners’ withholding taxes and Medicare contributions.76 Presaging and lending precedental lift to the present adjudication is the recent ruling in Manila Water Company.petitioners were contract-collectors of MWSS. they were under the latter’s direction as to where and how to perform their collection and were even subject to disciplinary measures. Interestingly in that regard. under the Agreement petitioners were "allowed" to render overtime work. Manila Water Company (Manila Water). petitioners did not have their own offices nor their own supplies and equipment.71 MWSS also monitored the performance of the petitioners and determined their efficiency ratings. as a result of which collectors who opted to remain with ACGI became unemployed. v. individually hired some of the former MWSS bill collectors to perform collection services for three (3) months. however. These bill collectors filed a complaint for illegal dismissal and money claims against Manila Water. the bill collectors formed a corporation.69 the Agreement clearly provided that the procedure and/or manner of the collection of bills to be followed shall be in accordance with the provisions of the Manual of Procedures. II . MWSS comported itself as the employer of petitioners. Later. and were given additional "incentive commission" for work so rendered as long as the same was authorized.D. office space and equipment. Manila Water later terminated its contract with ACGI. Peña. Art. Association Collectors Group. claiming that they were its employees since all the methods and procedures of their . The power to transfer or reassign employees is a management prerogative exclusively enjoyed by employers.73 Verily. Manila Water asked the collectors to transfer to a newly formed corporation. MWSS provides them with company stationeries. Trainings were in fact conducted to ensure that petitioners are conversant of the procedures of the MWSS.s. and certifications which declared them as employees of MWSS. Furthermore. Inc. 1968. the need to secure MWSS’ authorization before petitioners can render overtime work debunks its claim that they were allowed to work as and when they please. In this case. Subsequently." 70 Other manifestations of control are evident from the records. they being required to report and remit to MWSS almost twice daily. that the control measures installed by MWSS were restrictive enough to limit or even render illusory the other employment options of petitioners as their tasks took up most of their time.72 MWSS contends that petitioners were free to engage in other occupations and were not limited by the Agreement.
he must notify petitioner or the branch office in the morning of the day that he will be absent. (c) the power of dismissal. equipment. Manila Water contended that the bill collectors were employees of AGCI. and in the pursuit of the latter’s business. Lastly. Being in the business of providing water to the consumers in the East Zone. only P62. the corporate address of ACGI was the residence of its president. the penalty to be imposed was dictated by petitioner as shown in the letters it sent to ACGI specifying the penalties to be meted on the erring private respondents. work premises. it can be concluded that ACGI was not an independent contractor since it did not carry a distinct business free from the control and supervision of petitioner. Herminio D. which cannot be considered substantial capitalization. in dealing with the consumers. they were already working for petitioner. Mr. The most important element is the . it required private respondents to report daily and to remit their collections on the same day to the branch office or to deposit them with Bank of the Philippine Islands. and although it was ACGI which ultimately disciplined private respondents. private respondents reported daily to the branch office of the petitioner because ACGI has no office or work premises. Thus. free from the control and supervision of its principal. the work of the private respondents was directly related to the principal business or operation of the petitioner. the collection of the charges therefor by private respondents for the petitioner can only be categorized as clearly related to. Consequently. (b) the payment of wages. Prior to private respondents’ alleged employment with ACGI. to qualify as an independent contractor. the Court held that: Even the "four-fold test" will show that petitioner is the employer of private respondents. Petitioner issued memoranda regarding the billing methods and distribution of books to the collectors. and (d) the employer’s power to control the employee’s conduct. machineries. and other materials. it monitored strictly their attendance as when a collector cannot perform his daily collection.500.78 The Court ruled that the bill collectors were regular employees of Manila Water.000. private respondents used the receipts and identification cards issued by petitioner. This form of control and supervision never changed although they were already under the seeming employ of ACGI. thus: First.00 is actually paid-in. On the other hand.79 Even under the "four-fold test". Second. The 121 collectors subscribed to four shares each and paid only the amount of P625.00.collection were controlled by the latter. Peña. ACGI does not have substantial capitalization or investment in the form of tools. the bill collectors proved to be employees of Manila Water. subject to its rules and regulations in regard to the manner and method of performing their tasks. These are indications that ACGI was not left alone in the supervision and control of its alleged employees.000.00 in order to comply with the incorporation requirements. debunking the latter’s claim that they worked for an independent contractor corporation. Further. The elements to determine the existence of an employment relationship are: (a) the selection and engagement of the employee. In fact. While it has an authorized capital stock of P1. petitioner. ACGI did not carry on an independent business or undertake the performance of its service contract according to its own manner and method. Moreover. an independent contractor.
and controlling not only the end result but the manner of achieving the same as well. 1997 to November 30. as well as the Court of Appeals. We agree with the Labor Arbiter that in the three stages of private respondents’ services with the petitioner. the bill collectors in the Manila Water case were declared employees of Manila Water despite the existence of a sham labor contractor. which distinguishes between contract of services/job services and contractual appointment. The CSC. 1997 to February 8. Fourth. should the actuality of the employer-employee relationship between MWSS and petitioners be recognized. or eventually engaged through ACGI. 1999. the latter not resoting to the intermediary labor contractor artifice. Hence. Likewise.D. subjecting them to its rules and imposing punishment in case of breach thereof. makes much of CSC Memorandum Circular No. (2) from September 1. much like the arrangement between herein petitioners and MWSS. the work set-up was essentially the same. respondents therein reported daily to the Manila Water branch office and dealt with the consumers through receipts and I. but a mere a scrap of paper impudently declaring the bill collectors to be not employees of MWSS. the respondents in said case are petitioners in this case. work premises and other material to qualify as an independent contractor. issued by the latter. 1997. equipment. For one.e. Notably.. they were under the direct control and supervision of the concessionaire. The similarity between this case and the instant petition cannot be denied. the Court found that the so-called independent contractor did not have substantial capitalization or investment in the form of tools. i. Moreover. 1997.81 Second. With greater reason. 1997 was only temporary and done to accommodate their request to be absorbed since petitioner was still undergoing a transition period. their work was directly related to and in the pursuit of Manila Water’s principal business. the Court noted that ACGI did not carry a distinct business free from the control and supervision of Manila Water. they performed the same vital function of collection in both cases. petitioners were directly and individually hired by MWSS. they worked exclusively for their employers. not only as to the result of the work to be done. Third. (1) from August 1. More importantly. 1997 to August 31. but also as to the means and methods to accomplish it. regardless of whether the engagement was merely an accommodation of their request….employer’s control of the employee’s conduct. therefore. 1997 to August 30.80 (Emphasis Ours) In fine. Thus. The Circular provides: . Petitioner contends that the employment of private respondents from August 1. In the present case. an employment relationship existed between them. and (3) from December 1.s. While the bill collectors were individually hired. Although petitioner was not obliged to absorb the private respondents. by engaging their services. machineries. they were regular employees of petitioner. private respondents performed activities which were necessary or desirable to its principal trade or business. paying their wages in the form of commission. the latter exercised control and supervision over the formers’ conduct. Series of 1993. It was only when its business became settled that petitioner employed private respondents for a fixed term of three months. 38.
2. the CSC avers that contractual employees are those with contractual appointment submitted to and attested by the CSC. respectively. the MWSS is an income-generating entity for the Government. The job order covers piece of work or intermittent job of short duration not exceeding six months on a daily basis. Alongside its public service thrust. [sic] but covered by COA rules. Rightly so. it cannot turn a blind eye to a rather haphazard application and interpretation by the CSC of its own issuance. 3. 5. The contract of services and job orders are not covered by Civil Service Law. employees involved in the contracts or job orders do not enjoy the benefits enjoyed by the petitioners which are the same benefits given to government employees. security or even consultancy work. such as PERA. As the services rendered under contracts of services and job orders are not considered government services.Contract of Services and Job Orders are different from Contractual appointment and Plantilla appointment of casual employees. security or consultancy services where no employer-employee relationship exist. Petitioners are indeed regular employees of the MWSS. The employees involved in the contracts or job orders do not enjoy the benefits enjoined by government employees. such as in this case. The Court recognizes the authority of the CSC in promulgating circulars and memoranda concerning the civil service sector in line with its function as the central personnel agency of the Government. It relies for the most part on the bill collections in order to sustain its operations. Payments made by MWSS’ subscribers are the lifeblood of the company. The task of collecting payments for the water supplied by the MWSS to its consumers does not deserve to be compared with mere janitorial. which are required to be submitted to CSC for approval.83 Nevertheless. Contracts of Services and Job Orders refer to employment described as follows: 1. The contract covers lump sum work or services such as janitorial. It is not intermittent and seasonal. 4. A careful review of the above-quoted circular shows that the relationship defined by the Agreement cannot fall within the purview of contract of services or job orders. COLA and RATA. Viewed in that context the work rendered by the petitioners is essential to the company’s survival and growth. Rules and Regulations.82 Clinging to its tenuous denial of petitioners’ employee status. as clearly indicated in the circular. The primary standard of determining regular employment is the reasonable connection between the particular activity performed by . unlike petitioners who failed to show that their appointments were duly attested by the CSC. To lump petitioners with the run-of-the-mill service providers is to ignore the vital role they perform for the MWSS. they do not have to be submitted to the Civil Service Commission for approval. but rather continuous and increasing by reason of its indisputable essentiality.
The continuous and repeated rehiring of these bill collectors indicate the necessity and desirability of their services. they were not reported as its employees and hence no deductions were made against them for purpose of the GSIS contributions. Likewise.89 In view of the Court’s finding that petitioners were employees of MWSS. the corresponding severance pay.the employee in relation to the usual business or trade of the employer. in accordance with the guidelines. Civil Service Commission90 relied upon by petitioners is not in point. should be given to them. Still.91 This Court held that co-terminus employees who have rendered years of continuous service such as Chua -who was continuously hired and rehired for four (4) successive times in a span of fifteen (15) years-should be included in the coverage of the Early Retirement . There was no question that Chua was an employee. MWSS committed itself to pay severance and terminal leave pay to its regular employees. It would be unjust to grant petitioners retirement benefits when there was no remittance of the employees’ or the employer’s share of contributions.86 The point is of no moment. We agree with the CSC when it stated that the authority of government agencies to contract services is an authority recognized under civil service rules. specifically a contractual/project employee of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA). said authority cannot be used to circumvent the laws and deprive employees of such agencies from receiving what is due them.84 Some of the petitioners had rendered more than two decades of service to the MWSS. if not indispensability of the activity to the business. However. Terminal leave pay are likewise due petitioners. petitioners in this case cannot avail of retirement benefits from the GSIS.87 The guidelines88 thereof states that regular employees who have rendered at least a year of service and not eligible for retirement are entitled to severance pay equivalent to one (1) month basic pay for every full year of service. and that submission to and approval of the CSC are important as these show that their services had been credited as government service. as well as the importance of the role of bill collectors in the MWSS. The CSC goes further to say that petitioners were unable to present proof that their appointments were contractual in nature and submitted to the CSC for its approval.85 However. Petitioners were able to attach only two of such Agreements which bore the stamp of approval by the CSC and these are simply inadequate to prove that the other agreements were similarly approved. MWSS cannot raise its own inaction to buttress its adverse position. When their services were engaged by MWSS. The connection can be determined by considering the nature of the work performed and its relation to the scheme of the particular business or trade in its entirety. The CSC’s denial of her request for early retirement benefits was based on the CSC’s conclusion that contractual employees are not covered by the Early Retirement Law. Even petitioners admit that subsequently such Agreements were no longer submitted to the CSC for its approval. the failure to submit the documents for approval of the CSC cannot militate against the existence of employer-employee relationship between petitioners and MWSS. provided they meet the requirements therefor. the repeated and continuing need for the performance of the job has been deemed sufficient evidence of the necessity. The case of Chua v.
C. The D E C I S I O N of the Court of Appeals in C. Davide. 55263. unlike Chua. MWSS cannot be made liable for moral damages for the "serious moral disturbance"93 petitioners allegedly suffered as a result of the denial of the requested benefits because it was merely following the earlier resolution94 of the CSC. JJ. this case involves bill collectors who were hired by virtue of individual agreements. Azcuna. separation and terminal leave benefits. Jr. 991384 and 992074. Underlying this grant of retirement benefits to Chua is the finding that her work with the NIA was recognized and accredited by the CSC as government service.J. Callejo. the petition is GRANTED IN PART. concur. MWSS’ adherence to the position of the CSC is but logical. the central personnel agency of the government. The ruling in Chua concerns claims based on the Early Retirement Law. Let the case be remanded to the Civil Service Commission for the computation of the above awards and the appropriate disposition in accordance with the pronouncements in this D E C I S I O N.R. and its resolution at the time was valid and binding on MWSS.. No pronouncement as to costs. allowances and bonuses each were actually receiving at the time of termination of their employment as contract collectors of MWSS. On the other hand.92 The differences between Chua and petitioners are readily apparent. Quisumbing. SO ORDERED. SP No. Likewise. Puno. admittedly. that she paid her GSIS contributions throughout her service. Sr. were not credited/recognized by the CSC. as well as the Civil Service Commission’s Resolutions Nos. MWSS is ordered to pay terminal leave pay and separation pay and/or severance pay to each of herein petitioners on the basis of remunerations/commissions.. Corona. WHEREFORE.Law as long as they comply with CSC regulations promulgated for such purpose. Carpio-Morales. Panganiban.–G. Chico-Nazario. and Garcia. Moreover. petitioners in this case did not give any contribution for GSIS coverage..A. especially since retirement benefits come from the monthly contributions of GSIS members. unlike in the case of Chua where there was no question as to her status as an employee of the NIA. Footnotes . Petitioners’ services. are hereby REVERSED and SET ASIDE. Ynares-Santiago.. and who are now claiming payment of retirement. Sandoval-Gutierrez. Petitioner’s claim for damages and attorney’s fees are similarly untenable. It is after all. the parties still dispute the nature of their relationship when petitioners made the claim for the benefits. Carpio. and the fact that she applied for the benefit within the prescribed period. Austria-Martinez.
59-72. at 118-141. As per Memorandum Circular 04. Id. Id. 981668. at 74-114. at 67. 991384 dated 1 July 1999 and Resolution No. 3 Id. 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 . 992074. Bernardo P. Id. at 135-136. Citing CSC Resolution No. id. at 291-294 Resolution No. at 138. at 69. 981668. at 146. Rollo. at 66-67. at 145. 206 SCRA 65. id. at 249. pp. 2 Resolution No. Id. Id. 7 February 1992. at 65. id. Penned by Justice Josefina Guevara-Salonga. at 248-265. 88979. No. at 70. id. Art. 991384. G. Id. Id. id. 71. Id. CSC Resolution No. JJ. Tolentino. at 134-135. concurring. at 143-146. Series of 1994. p. I of the Agreement. Id. at 118-146. Rollo. at 136.R.992074 dated 17 September 1999.1 Promulgated on 26 July 2002 by the Special Third Division. CSC Resolution No. Id. id. Abesamis and Amelita G. Id. 26 June 1996.
at 304. p. 225 (1967). Id. 24 Agreement dated 2 May 1983 in the name of Edgardo N. at 264271. at 18. Id. id. at 248-258. id. at 43. at 15-16. at 34-A. Rollo pp. Id. at 16-17. Id. Id. 52-55. Rollo. id. at 10. Supra note 19. 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42 43 44 . at 232. at 46. Id. Pingul. at 14. Id at 578. Id. Id.23 Id. Id. Id. at 16-17. at 34. Agreement dated 24 August 1979 in the name of Edilberto C. Id. Id at 55. at 288. 40. Garcia. Id. 25 Id. at 42. Per certification of one branch manager dated 20 June 1996. 128 Phil. at 18. 39.
336 Phil. 580. Rollo. 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 . 201 (2002). 875. 3. 53 An Act Creating the Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System and Dissolving the National Waterworks and Sewerage Authority. Id at 582. 423. 14 September 1993. 693. No. citing II RECORD 614. Art 97(f)." 46 Sec 4. pursuant to his employment appointments excluding per diems. (2003). 1987 Constitution. National Labor Relations Commission. Id at 263. 1987 Constitution. pp. Rollo pp. p. 47 48 49 50 Bataan Shipyard and Engineering Corporation v. Chapter 1 (Title 1). National Labor Relations Commission. Lagrama. Id at 582. 226 SCRA 417. The 1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines. 54 Sec. 748-749. 136-137. Sec. Defensor. Corsiga v. pp. See note 45. 191. overtime pay and allowances. Tanv. and for Other Purposes. Rollo. 255-256. Labor Code. Sec. 109114.45 Revised Government Service Insurance Act of 1977. bonuses. 1194. G. 883 (2002). Article II.the basic pay or salary received by an employee. Article IX. 52 Bernas. A Commentary. Executive Order No. 205 (1997). Book IV. Sec. 51 Holiday Inn Manila v. Article XIII. Rollo p. 252-253. 436 Phil. 1987 Constitution. 292. 193. 18. Id at 580. 439 Phil. 2 (1). 2(i) thereof provides: "Compensation.R.
Agnesio D. Pingul.158255. NLRC. Rivera. 68 MAM Realty Development Corporation v. 838. pp. citing Industrial Timber Corporation v. 842 (1995). 580. Id. Allan D. NLRC. Manlegro. John L. Zafaralla.64 Section 1. Id at 254. Marteja. Quebral. Rizalino M. 21 August 1989. 135-136. Ike S. Jorge D. Id at 302. Rollo p. Id at 249. id. Rey T. De Leon v. Ltd. 65 66 67 Insular Life Assurance Co. 6234. Republic Act No. 926 (1998). 8 July 2004. Rollo p. Edmundo B. Victor C. Rollo.R. 621. V. 1987 Constitution. NLRC. Baldoza. Article IX. at 55-56.R. 434 SCRA 53. Id at 264. 919. Id at 60-61. Jr. 70705. Id at 268-275. Sec. Canonigo. 991384. Pena.No. Intal. 3. 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 Private respondents in the case are all petitioners in the present petition. 350 Phil. 134. 176 SCRA 615. Edilberto C. Delfin. No. 169 SCRA 341. to wit: Herminio D. Morada. Espina.. and Federico M. Id at 62. Marlon B. Victa. G. G. 314 Phil. 83 84 . NLRC. Esteban B. Section 13. Eduardo Ong. Id at 203-206 Id at 288. 82 Quoted in CSC Resolution No.
CSC Resolution No. Supra note 85. 90 G. 6683.R. 981668.85 Rollo p. 91 92 93 94 . id. id. at 119. at 402. 55.1 of the Concession Agreement issued by MWSS on 31 July 1997. 89 Guidelines in the Payment of the Mandatory Severance Pay Pursuant to Article 6. 88979. CSC Resolution No. Id at 145. 991384. Supra note 5.1 of the Concession Agreement issued by MWSS on 31 July 1997. 140. 86 87 88 Guidelines in the Payment of the Mandatory Severance Pay Pursuant to Article 6. Republic Act No. Rollo p. 206 SCRA 65. at 401. id. No. 7 February 1992. quoting the Concession Agreements.

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