Senator Francis Tolentino has pledged continued support for barangay frontliners after the passage of two key bills strengthening grassroots governance.
Speaking to 70 barangay captains in Lipa, Tolentino gave details about Senate Bill No. (SBN) 2815, which sets barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials’ terms, and SBN 2838 or the the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs). The Senate approved both before its recent break.
SBN 2815 moves the barangay elections from December to September 2027, giving incumbents more time for development programs. On one hand, SBN 2838 guarantees BHWs monthly honoraria from the Department of Health.
“I strongly supported these bills because I know the realities on the ground as a former local chief executive myself,” the former mayor of Tagaytay, Cavite said.
When asked if the Senate could push for SSS and PhilHealth coverage for barangay tanods, Tolentino committed to expanding benefits, including for barangay nutrition scholars and daycare workers.
“Perhaps not just barangay tanods, but also for barangay nutrition scholars and daycare workers. I have long worked with community frontliners, I have seen their dedication and I’m aware of their concerns,” he stated.IMT
