Bataan First District Representative Geraldine Roman has filed a bill that aims to give barangay health workers (BHWs) the recognition and benefits they deserve as government workers.

House Bill 6481, or the Barangay Frontline Health Services Act of 2022, seeks to increase the salary, provide job security, and enhance the welfare of BHWs, who are considered as essential and unsung heroes in the health sector.

According to Congresswoman Roman, BHWs are the first line of defense against various diseases and health problems in the communities. They are responsible for delivering basic health services, promoting health education, conducting disease surveillance, and assisting in immunization and maternal care. However, despite their vital role, they are often neglected and underpaid by the government.

“I am with the fight of our Barangay Health Workers, that is why I pushed for HB 6481 in Congress. It aims to give them the status of government worker, raise their salary, and give them job security. Let us unite in advocating for the rights of our essential and unsung heroes in the health sector,” Roman said in a statement on her official Facebook Page.

The bill proposes to grant BHWs a monthly salary equivalent to Salary Grade 6, which is around P16,000 as of 2022. It also mandates the provision of social security benefits, health insurance, hazard pay, subsistence allowance, and other incentives. Moreover, it ensures the protection of BHWs from discrimination, harassment, and violence in the performance of their duties.

Roman hopes that her bill will be passed into law soon and will help improve the quality of life and service of BHWs. She also expressed her gratitude and appreciation to all BHWs for their dedication and sacrifice amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Thank you for your hard work and courage in serving our people. You are truly our heroes. We will not stop fighting for your rights and welfare,” she said.

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