State Workers May Receive Increased Bonuses of S/ 1,130 for Patrias and Christmas
LIMA – Public sector employees in Peru could see a significant boost to their year-end bonuses, potentially receiving a combined total of S/ 1,130 for the Patrias and Christmas celebrations, under a new legislative proposal currently under consideration by Congress. The proposal seeks to double the existing bonus amounts, a move that is already drawing scrutiny regarding its financial sustainability and constitutional legality.
The initiative, gaining traction as Peru approaches a new electoral process, would increase both the Patrias and Christmas bonuses for state workers. While proponents suggest the measure would provide economic relief, critics argue it’s a populist move lacking a solid financial foundation.
“This type of initiatives reinforce the popularity of the proponents,but without guaranteeing that thay are sustainable over time,” stated an unnamed source familiar with the discussions.
Legal experts are also raising concerns. César Pontriano, a partner at the Muñiz Study, points to a potential conflict with legislative powers. “The Congress of the Republic has no spending initiative. In addition, it is anti-technician to double the cost of the bonus without dimensioning its real impact on the public treasure. Who must define whether there is a budget to pay this amount is the MEF, not Congress,” he explained.
Pontriano further characterized the proposal as part of a continuing trend of “populist projects in a pre-election context.”
The government currently delivers an Aguinaldo of S/ 300 to public sector workers, with specific requirements set by the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF). The proposed increase would substantially expand this benefit, but its feasibility remains uncertain given budgetary constraints and the MEF’s role in determining available funds.