Legarda files 'Magna Carta for DRRM Workers Bill'

Senator Loren Legarda has filed Senate Bill No. 2927, or the Magna Carta for Public Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Workers, to recognize and support the critical role of DRRM personnel in the country.

Legarda emphasized the importance of institutionalizing measures to protect and enhance the welfare of DRRM workers in a nation frequently ranked as the most disaster-prone by the World Risk Index.

"The country faces natural hazards more than any other nation in the world, including earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, and other natural and human-induced hazards," said Legarda, who is also a UNDRR Global Champion for Resilience.

The bill aims to improve working conditions for DRRM workers, including career advancement opportunities, psychosocial care, and financial incentives such as hazard pay, overtime pay, night differential, mandatory insurance coverage, and retirement benefits.

"We want the government to recognize the significant contributions of those who risk their lives to save others by providing the necessary support," Legarda said.

The proposed legislation also seeks to strengthen the capacity of DRRM workers to deliver critical services effectively, addressing gaps in disaster preparedness and response.

Legarda, a co-sponsor of the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act of 2010 and the principal author of the PAGASA Modernization Act of 2015, reiterated the need to invest in resilience and preparedness against the increasing threats of natural disasters.

"To be disaster-resilient, we must support those who tirelessly work in the field to protect and save lives," she added.