BUAP pension reform proposed to prevent fund collapse

Carlos Armando Ríos Acevedo, general secretary of the Academic Personnel Union of BUAP (ASPABUAP), has proposed a reform to the university's pension and retirement system to prevent a financial collapse. The current fund holds 6.5 billion pesos, with 1.6 billion pesos spent annually to cover 1,200 retirees. Given the average of 400 retirement requests per year, officials warn the institution could lose its ability to pay within four years.

The proposed 2025-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement reform suggests a gradual increase in worker contributions, starting at 4% of the base salary plus 4% for benefits, with a 1% annual increase until reaching a 15% cap. If approved, the measure aims to ensure 80 years of financial stability for the fund, potentially allowing for new academic positions and promotions.

Ríos Acevedo has addressed concerns regarding worker rights, stating that acquired benefits such as the 90-day Christmas bonus (aguinaldo) will remain intact. He emphasized that the reform does not affect current retirees and is designed to provide long-term certainty for future generations. A vote on the reform agreement is scheduled for October 28.