P-Noy approves hazard pay for PDEA agents

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – President Aquino has approved the granting of hazard pay to agents of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

The approval was given through a memorandum to the Department of Budget and Management last Dec. 9.

PDEA Director General Arturo Cacdac Jr. said the hazard pay would boost the morale and increase productivity and efficiency of PDEA operatives and chemists.

“Our PDEA operatives are directly exposed to varied dangers and health risks during the conduct of anti-drug operations,” he said. “They deserve to be given additional compensation for performing hazardous duties.” 

Personnel of other government agencies such as the Philippine National Police, National Bureau of Investigation and Department of Health are given hazard pay due to the nature of their job.

Ninety-five PDEA chemists doing laboratory or field duties are receiving hazard allowances provided under Republic Act 8439, the Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and other Science and Technology Personnel in Government.