Manila, Philippines — With 20 affirmative votes, zero negative votes, and zero abstentions.
The Senate once again approved on third and final reading Senate Bill No. 1905 or the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers.
Under the proposed measure, Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) across the country will receive expanded benefits, incentives, and legal protections.
The bill provides volunteer BHWs with a monthly honorarium of at least ₱3,000, in addition to transportation allowance, hazard pay, cash gifts, loyalty incentives, and insurance coverage.
It also expands access to education and career advancement programs, preferential access to livelihood opportunities, and civil service eligibility.
According to senators, BHWs serve as frontliners in their respective communities and are often the first point of contact for people seeking healthcare.
They also work alongside doctors and nurses as health educators, community organizers, and record keepers
Senate Senior Deputy Majority Leader JV Ejercito, the bill’s principal author and sponsor, said its approval demonstrates the government’s recognition of the heroism, sacrifice, and invaluable contributions of Barangay Health Workers to the country’s healthcare system.
Aside from Ejercito, several senators also delivered manifestations of support and welcomed the Senate’s approval of the measure.
Meanwhile, Senate Bill No. 1905 directs the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) to review and adjust the benefits of Barangay Health Workers every three years.
The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and the Civil Service Commission (CSC) are also tasked to work together toward placing BHWs under a regular salary system.
Senators likewise called on the House of Representatives to pass its version of the bill for Barangay Health Workers.
This comes after the House, during the final session of the 19th Congress, withdrew its approval of the measure at the last minute.
Representatives from the National Confederation of Barangay Health Workers of the Philippines and the UNI Global Union–Philippine Liaison Council personally witnessed the Senate’s approval of the bill.
They also expressed their gratitude on behalf of more than 277,000 Barangay Health Workers nationwide.