Senator Christopher "Bong" Go has advocated better compensation and benefits for Barangay Health Workers, or BHWs, considering their critical role in the healthcare system, particularly in bringing public health services to the grassroots.

In an interview during a recent visit to projects he earlier supported in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, Go acknowledged the BHW's sacrifices and contributions at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

To honor their contributions, the senator said he has filed Senate Bill 427, known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, which proposes to provide them a monthly honorarium, along with a comprehensive package of benefits, including allowances, job security, regular training, and skills development opportunities.

The proposed benefits are seen as an extension and enhancement of the existing benefits under RA 7883 that provide various incentives to dedicated BHWs.

Livelihood opportunities set

He also pushed for more livelihood opportunities for Filipinos by assisting displaced workers in Guindulman, Alicia, Anda and Mabini in Bohol.

Go's office joined a series of relief operations aimed at helping displaced workers across various municipalities in Bohol, including the said towns.

The relief efforts were implemented with Rep. Alexie Tutor in Alicia, Anda and Mabini and Mayor Albino Balo in Guindulman.

Held at the Guindulman municipal gym, Go's team distributed snacks to 360 displaced workers.

Meanwhile, there were select recipients of shirts, basketballs, and volleyballs.

The beneficiaries qualified for livelihood support from the Department of Labor and Employment after they completed DoLE's Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/ Displaced Workers, or TUPAD program.

Interim jobs sought

He has filed Senate Bill 420 to provide temporary jobs to eligible members of low-income rural households willing to engage in unskilled physical labor for a defined period.

Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography also cited the medical assistance programs offered by the Malasakit Centers located at Governor Celestino Gallares Memorial Hospital in Tagbilaran City and Don Emilio del Valle Memorial Hospital in Ubay.