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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Padilla wants discrimination vs barangay health workers to end

Padilla wants discrimination vs barangay health workers to end

Published Aug 28, 2022 11:14 am

Senator Robinhood “Robin” Padilla said the government should put a stop to the discrimination that barangay health workers (BHWs) are facing.

Noting the sacrifices they made to protect the health of ordinary Filipino citizens, Padilla said it is only fitting for BHWs to be given additional compensation and benefits and the right to self-organize to seek redress for grievances in a peaceful manner.

“With the huge role that our BHWs perform in our health sector, it is only proper that the State likewise protect those who protect our people by giving them just compensation and other benefits and incentives that they rightfully deserve,” Padilla said in filing Senate Bill No. 232 or the propsoed Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers.

The bill seeks to strengthen protection to BHWs who serve as the frontliners in the delivery of primary health care services. Padilla pointed out BHWs play an integral role in the provision of basic health care services in the country.

“This bill also includes the BHWs' right to self-organization in order to freely form, join or assist organizations to obtain redress of their grievances through peaceful concerted activities, in a manner not contrary to law,” the senator added.

The measure seeks to cover BHWs who are registered and accredited with the municipal or city health boards.

In order to be accredited, BHWs must have rendered at least two years of "continuous and satisfactory service," as well as have completed "regular training program on health care service and community-based health program" as prescribed by the Department of Health (DOH).

Also under the bill, municipal and city health offices are required to maintain an updated BHW Registry, while the DOH will maintain a national registry of BHWs.

At the same time, BHWs are to fulfill the roles of "advocate" or health programs; "educator" to guide the community on health priorities of local government units; "disseminator" of health updates to the community; "coordinator" for health services; "record keeper" of health data, activities and events in the community; and "health care service provider."

Under the bill, at least one BHW is to be appointed for every 20 households in a barangay. Benefits for BHWs include a 20 percent discount on items under the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010; hazard allowance of at least P1,000 per month; and subsistence allowance of at least P100 per day.

BHWs would also be entitled to a cash gift in December, transportation allowance of at least P1,000 per month, a one-time Retirement Cash Incentive of P100,000 for accredited BHWs who served for 15 years and training and education programs.

Also under the measure, BHWs are entitled to health benefits such as free medical care, emergency assistance and mandatory membership in PhilHealth; insurance coverage; sick, vacation and maternity leaves; disability benefits, civil service eligibility, free legal services, and preferential access to government loan facilities.

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