Bong Go advocates for improved working conditions, benefits for barangay health workers
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go emphasized the critical role played by BHWs in the country's healthcare system especially in communities during the Barangay Health Worker's (BHW) Congress in Cebu City on Friday, 6 October.
The senator also expressed his gratitude to the BHWs for their tireless efforts in promoting health and well-being at the grassroots level.
"You are the vanguards of health promotion and disease prevention at the grassroots level. You are the bridge that connects our communities with our healthcare institutions, ensuring that even the most remote and underserved areas receive the care and attention they deserve," said Go.
Go acknowledged the BHWs as the real heroes of the community, saying, "Kaya naman nais kong magpasalamat sa lahat ng mga Barangay Health Workers na narito ngayon. Kayo ang mga tunay na bayani ng ating komunidad. Araw-araw, inyong inilalaan ang inyong oras, lakas, upang siguruhing ang mga mamamayan ay ligtas at malusog."
In line with his advocacy for healthcare development, Go assured the BHWs of his ongoing efforts to improve their working conditions and expand their roles.
"I have always been a staunch supporter of the healthcare sector and firmly believe that the Barangay Health Workers play a vital role in achieving our healthcare goals," he said.
The senator also discussed two key pieces of legislation he is pushing for aimed at supporting BHWs: Senate Bill No. (SBN) 197, also known as the Magna Carta for Barangays, and SBN 427, known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act.
The Magna Carta for Barangays proposes that barangay officials, including the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and barangay treasurer, receive similar treatment as regular government employees. This means they would be eligible for salaries, benefits, and allowances, among other perks.
Meanwhile, SBN 427 proposes to provide BHWs a monthly honorarium of P3,000, along with a comprehensive package of benefits, including allowances, job security, regular training, and skill development opportunities.