Manila: The Senate on Monday unanimously approved a bill granting stronger protection, standardized benefits, and professional development opportunities to barangay health workers (BHWs) nationwide.
According to Philippines News Agency, Senate Bill No. 1905 under Committee Report No. 35, or the proposed 'Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers,' received 20 affirmative votes, with no negative vote or abstention. The measure formally recognizes BHWs as vital primary healthcare frontliners and establishes uniform standards for their registration, certification, training, benefits, and protection.
Senator JV Ejercito, an author and co-sponsor of the measure, emphasized the importance of this step in providing long-deserved recognition, protection, and support to BHWs. Many BHWs continue to serve despite low honoraria and insufficient support, sometimes spending their own money to provide medical assistance to residents.
Under the bill, registered and certified volunteer BHWs will receive a monthly monetary benefit of at least PHP3,000, transportation assistance, hazard allowance, and an annual cash gift. They are also entitled to a one-time loyalty incentive of at least PHP10,000 after 15 years of continuous and satisfactory service.
Senator Raffy Tulfo, a co-author of the bill, highlighted the measure's role in protecting BHWs from losing their positions due to changes in local leadership or political considerations. He argued that a health worker's job must not depend on political loyalty, noting that strengthening BHWs will make healthcare more accessible.
Principal sponsor Senator Risa Hontiveros emphasized the bill's provision of safeguards against arbitrary removal and its role in opening pathways to education, scholarships, civil service eligibility, and local government positions. She stated that the voluntary nature of their work does not mean it should be unpaid.
The bill also offers government-designed insurance coverage, free legal assistance for official duty-related cases, and access to psychosocial and mental health services, subject to available resources. It includes education and certification programs and a national information system for BHWs' records.
Certified BHWs with at least five years of satisfactory service may qualify for subprofessional civil service eligibility, following Civil Service Commission rules. The proposed BHW Deployment Subsidy aims to help low-income municipalities comply with mandated benefits without burdening financially challenged local governments.
Senator Francis Pangilinan noted that the country's estimated 250,000 BHWs serve as a bridge between government health programs and families, especially during emergencies. He stressed the need for serious commitment to universal healthcare by supporting those who implement it daily.
Senator Joel Villanueva described BHWs as the 'quiet heroes' of the healthcare system, aiding pregnant women, supporting childhood immunization, and delivering basic services in remote areas. Investing in their training, protection, and welfare is seen as strengthening the foundation of the Universal Health Care program.
