Providing adequate compensation is not a privilege but a just right of our barangay health workers (BHWs). During the Covid-19 pandemic, they stood at the forefront of our nation’s response. They risked their lives to serve fellow Filipinos, becoming our unsung heroes as the first line of defense in communities across the country.

In recognition of their sacrifices and role, we co-sponsored on February 25 the proposed SBN 1905, or the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, of which I am one of the authors.

In the previous Congress, this measure was close to passage but ultimately fell short at the final stage. Now, however, we are grateful that the bill has been revived, bringing renewed hope for the long-overdue institutional recognition of our BHWs.

During my term as chairman of the Senate Committee on Health, we consistently fought for the release of their Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) in 2023, 2024, and 2025. Wherever I visited communities and local health facilities, I heard their unified call: “HEA, HEA, HEA!”

After years of waiting, we can say that our persistence paid off, as we successfully secured and facilitated the release of these benefits. Long-standing balances were already settled, amounting to P27 billion in 2024 and P6.7 billion last year. We are now urging the Department of Health to complete the payment of the HEA.

Furthermore, no less than our Constitution and the Local Government Code highlight the importance of the delivery of basic services and facilities, such as health and social welfare services, which were devolved to local government units down to the barangay level.

In terms of health service delivery, barangay health workers serve as frontliners in their respective communities. They play a vital role in carrying out the primary health care approach toward health empowerment.

Hence, I give my utmost support and dedication to my fellow lawmakers in pushing for this measure until the proposed Magna Carta is passed.

Even before, public service has always been my priority. I remain steadfast in honoring the trust given to me by the Filipino people and will continue to push for meaningful legislation that uplifts lives, strengthens our health system, and advances our nation’s progress.

Last week, our team extended assistance to various fire victims, including those in Valenzuela City, Mandaluyong City, Tondo in Manila, Muntinlupa City and Tanza, Cavite.

Our team likewise provided assistance to flood victims in Compostela, Montevista, Maco, Mawab, Nabunturan and Monkayo in Davao de Oro, as well as in Asuncion, New Corella, Tagum City and Carmen in Davao del Norte.

Furthermore, TESDA scholars from Pagadian City and Basey, Samar, also received assistance from our team during their graduation.

As your Mr. Malasakit, I will always be of help for my fellow Filipinos dahil bisyo ko ang magserbisyo at naniniwala ako na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo sa Diyos.