Senator Koko Pimentel urged President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to sign the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), emphasizing its long-overdue benefits for the country’s frontline health volunteers.
“The Senate and House have ratified the BICAM report. It only needs the President’s signature,” Pimentel said, noting that funding concerns have been thoroughly studied.
He highlighted the role of over 400,000 BHWs nationwide, particularly in Marikina, where volunteers lead vaccination drives, maternal health programs, and emergency response efforts. Many have served for years without adequate benefits.
“Matagal nang naglilingkod ang ating BHWs sa mga komunidad, lalo na noong pandemya. Panahon na para mabigyan sila ng nararapat na benepisyo at suporta,” the senator from Cagayan de Oro said.
In January 2025, Pimentel proposed higher taxes on vape and heated tobacco products as a potential funding source for BHW honoraria.
“Kailangan nating tiyakin na may sapat na pondo para sa kanilang honoraria. Isa sa mga maaaring pagkunan ay ang mas mataas na buwis sa vape at heated tobacco products,” according to him.
With the bill awaiting only the President’s approval, Pimentel hopes for swift action.
“Matagal nang hinihintay ng ating Barangay Health Workers ang batas na ito. Umaasa tayo na pipirmahan ito ng Pangulo nang walang anumang hadlang.”IMT
