The Senate has approved on third and final reading the proposed Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), bringing the long-awaited measure a step closer to becoming law.
Senate Bill No. 1905 seeks to improve the welfare of BHWs by providing security of tenure, better benefits and allowances, GSIS insurance coverage, continuing education and training, free legal and mental health services, and higher compensation for volunteer health workers.
Senate President Sherwin Gatchalian, a co-author and co-sponsor of the measure, said the bill recognizes the vital role of barangay health workers in delivering healthcare services to communities.
“Ang ating mga barangay health workers ang nagsisilbing frontliners upang tugunan ang pangangailangang pangkalusugan ng ating mga komunidad,” he said.
Senator Raffy Tulfo also welcomed the Senate’s approval, saying barangay health workers deserve greater protection from political interference and changes in local leadership.
“Ang ating Barangay Health Workers, ang tunay na first line of defense ng ating health system. Rain or shine – present sila para maglingkod sa ating mga kababayan,” he said, adding that their jobs should not depend on politics or political loyalty.
For his part, Senator Francis “Kiko” Pangilinan said the measure is long overdue, recalling the sacrifices made by BHWs, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Hanggang kailan ba sila dapat maghintay para sa tamang sweldo at mga benepisyo? Sa totoo lang, late na late na nga ito kaya mabuti naman at finally, malapit-lapit na itong maging batas. Panahon na para suklian ang sakripisyo nila,” he said.IMT
