CUC suspends restoration, overtime premiums

In a July 23, 2026, memorandum, Commonwealth Utilities Corporation Executive Director Kevin Watson informed all CUC employees that restoration and overtime premiums will be suspended on July 26, 2026.

“CUC continues to face an unprecedented financial crisis. Despite every effort over the past three months following the disaster, CUC has not secured the additional funding necessary to sustain restoration operations at their current level. As a result, we must carefully manage our remaining financial resources to ensure the continued operation of the utility,” he said.

Watson explained, “Managers and Supervisors must ensure that all employees are advised that both restoration and overtime premium pay are suspended and that no overtime work is scheduled or performed, unless it is a life-threatening trouble call.”

The news comes amid recovery efforts for both Super Typhoon Sinlaku and Super Typhoon Bavi.

Watson said it was not an easy decision but was necessary to meet payroll obligations, purchase fuel to keep generators running, and maintain services while they seek more funds.

“This action is in no way a reflection of the value of your work or our appreciation for your commitment. Rather, it is a difficult but necessary step to ensure that CUC can continue serving the people of the Commonwealth during this period of financial uncertainty,” he said.