THE management of Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) has assured its more than 300 employees that no one will be left behind once the airport is privatized.

CIAC issued the statement in the light of the takeover of the airport's operation and maintenance (O&M) this year by North Luzon Airport Consortium led by the Changi Airport Philippines Pte. Ltd.

"The Clark International Airport Corporation (CIAC) Management assures its employees of a just, fair and lawful severance package and a retire-rehire option," a press statement sent to Sunstar Pampanga Sunday, January 13, said.

CIAC added that no one will lose their job as those who will be affected will be absorbed and prioritized for hiring by the new (O&M) private consortium.

The CIAC management stated that it will work towards ensuring job security or the option of an attractive severance package for all personnel who will be affected.

All the hard work and efforts of employees will be duly acknowledged and properly compensated, it added.

"We reiterate our empathy with the sentiments of airport workers. In fact, there is an ongoing labor mediation and negotiations facilitated by the National Conciliation and Mediation Board to peacefully iron out the differences and ensure a smooth transition," the CIAC management said.

"We humbly ask for the patience and understanding of concerned individuals and groups, and we hope these assurances will assuage the sentiment vote held last week by rank and file employees," it added.

CIAC also clarified that it, or any of its personnel, had never coerced nor intimidated union members, as it truly adheres to freedom of expression.

It also assured the public that while the issues are being settled, airport operations will remain efficient and unhampered, and the safety and security of the riding public will always be of utmost priority.