Updated on February 16 // 9:23PM
A committee of the House of Representatives approved the increase in the pay and other benefits of midwives under the proposed amendments to the Philippine Midwifery Act being tackled by the chamber.
One of the bill’s principal authors, Kabayan Party-list Rep. Ron Salo, in a statement welcomed the House committee on appropriations’ approval of the measure, calling it “a very fitting gift to our midwives, who are among the frontliners in ensuring healthy Filipino babies and pregnant mothers.”
In the committee hearing, Salo stressed the crucial role of midwives in the delivery of healthcare and acknowledged the necessity to upgrade the practice of midwifery.
“The approval of the Appropriations committee is a significant step towards strengthening the practice of midwifery in the country. It is the midwives who are at the forefront of carrying out vital health services to pregnant mothers and their babies, especially in the rural and far-flung areas, and yet they are only considered as subprofessional and only receive a low entry-level salary despite the arduous nature of their work,” said Salo.
“It’s high time to upgrade the standards and education in midwifery to broaden their job opportunities and equip them with the necessary skills and standards that meet the evolving needs of our nation,” he added.
Under the House committee-approved version of the bill, midwives working in the government will receive a Salary Grade 11 entry level, a substantial increase from the current Salary Grade 9.
In addition, the institutionalization of clear guidelines and standards for midwifery education and practices is expected to ensure high-quality maternal care nationwide and possibly address the issue of mass exodus of healthcare workers in the country.
Salo also thanked stakeholders particularly from Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines, Midwives Foundation of the Philippines Incorporated, and the Philippine League of Government and Private Midwives (PLGPM).
He also thanked his fellow legislators for supporting the cause such as Batanes Rep. Ciriaco Gato, Bulacan Rep. Salvador Pleyto, Bohol Rep. Kristine Alexie Tutor, and Marikina City Rep. Stella Luz Quimbo.
Salo hopes that the bill will soon be approved by the chamber in plenary session, and will garner support from the Senate, paving the way for its eventual enactment.