Rep. Ron P. Salo of Kabayan party-list has filed a bill enhancing the benefits for public health workers.
Salo filed House Bill 9127, which if enacted into law, will amend Republic Act 7305 or the Magna Carta of Public Health Workers.
“The Magna Carta of Public Health Workers was a crucial milestone in recognizing the vital role our health workers play in our society. However, the passage of more than three decades necessitates an update to reflect the changing times and to ensure that our public health workers are justly compensated for their tireless efforts,” Salo said in the explanatory note.
“RA 7305, enacted on March 26, 1992, represented a significant step forward at the time, the bill’s provisions have become outdated in light of the evolving economic landscape,” he added.
Among the proposed enhancements provided in the bill are:
- Public health workers shall be given 25 percent hazard allowance across the board, regardless of salary grade. As it currently stands, only public health workers below salary grade 20 are receiving the 25 percent hazard pay. Those with salary grade 20 or higher only receive 5% hazard allowance.
- The subsistence allowance of public health workers are also pegged at P300 with gradual increases up to P500. Currently, the subsistence allowance is provided as three meals a day based on prevailing circumstances.
- The laundry allowance is proposed to be increased to P1,000 a month, currently pegged at P125.
“The COVID-19 pandemic has underscored the unwavering dedication of our public health workers who have consistently gone above and beyond the call of duty to protect and serve the public, often at great personal risk. It is now more critical than ever to provide them with benefits and incentives that are commensurate with their contributions,” Salo said.
“Enhancing the benefits of our public health workers will encourage them to stay and work in the Philippines, allowing them to spend more time with their loved ones while receiving a dignified compensation,” Salo further stated.
“This bill represents a significant step forward in our commitment to recognizing the importance of our public health workers. By providing them with better benefits and incentives, we not only express our gratitude but also ensure that they can continue to serve our nation with dedication and pride,” Salo stressed.