Manila: Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos and Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos have introduced a bill aimed at mandating health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage for all public school teachers. The proposed legislation, known as House Bill No. 6512 or the 'TeachCare bill,' was filed at the House of Representatives on December 1. The initiative seeks to address the welfare of public school teachers, who often face significant workloads.

According to Philippines News Agency, the bill stipulates that teachers who have been employed in public schools for a minimum of six months will be eligible for medical and dental HMO coverage as part of their employment benefits. This initiative intends to institutionalize and potentially expand upon Executive Order 64, s. 2024, signed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which provides an annual medical allowance of up to PHP7,000 to government civilian personnel, including public school teachers.

In a statement on Thursday, JB Bernos emphasized the necessity of providing support to teachers through HMO coverage due to the demands of their profession. He noted that this would enable them to manage their health without the fear of financial strain. Bernos highlighted reports from the Department of Education and the Alliance of Concerned Teachers indicating that teachers allocate a significant portion of their income to medical and dental expenses.

He further remarked that educators, who often work long hours on both teaching and administrative tasks, are deserving of additional support through HMO coverage. Bernos expressed concern for teachers who endure health issues because the costs associated with addressing these issues could lead them into debt.