House consolidates 49 bills benefiting barangay health workers

MANILA, Philippines — A committee of the House of Representatives has approved the consolidation of 49 measures that will benefit hardworking yet underpaid barangay health workers (BHWs), who served as frontliners during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The House committee on local government chaired by Valenzuela Rep. Rex Gatchalian consolidated the measures into a “substitute bill.”

“It is time to recognize the vital role that BHWs play in the delivery of services in the communities, especially in the rural areas,” Gatchalian said. “Our collective efforts to ensure the passage of the Magna Carta for BHWs will be our expression of gratitude for their diligence and sacrifice.”

Once enacted into law, BHWs will be entitled to incentives such as hazard allowance, subsistence allowance, one-time retirement cash incentive, health benefits, insurance coverage, sick leaves as well as access to training, education and career enrichment programs.

Gatchalian said the amount needed for the implementation of the measure would come from the National Tax Allotment of local government units and the special health funding under Republic Act 11223 or the Universal Health Care Act.

A similar measure providing a Magna Carta for BHWs was approved by the House during the 18th Congress.

With the bill now on its way to the plenary, Gatchalian expressed hope that it would be enacted into law during the 19th Congress, citing the noble efforts of the lawmakers who resolutely pushed for its passage.

“We would like to thank the authors of this measure for their passion and insights. We are confident of its swift passage at the House,” he said.

Gatchalian lauded the BHWs for their crucial role in making health services accessible in every community.