Senator Loren Legarda on Tuesday said the approval of Senate Bill No. 2838 or the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) assures more training and benefits to village health workers nationwide.

In a news release, Legarda said the approval of SB 2538 on final reading by the Senate on Monday after almost three decades marked a historic milestone in recognizing the dedication and sacrifices of BHWs.

“For decades, our Barangay Health Workers have been the silent guardians of our communities, ensuring no one is left behind in healthcare. They have served without complaint, without fanfare, and for far too long, without the recognition and support they deserve. Finally, we give the Barangay Health Workers the rights, protection, and recognition long denied to them,” Legarda said.

As the bill’s principal author and co-sponsor, Legarda emphasized its significance in uplifting the welfare of BHWs, acknowledging their sacrifices, and securing their rightful benefits as essential pillars of the country’s healthcare system.

Legarda cited the story of Melinda Brosas, a BHW whose dedication was highlighted by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Brosas oversees 103 households in her “purok” (zone) braving steep hills and crossing rivers with strong currents to provide healthcare services to those in need.

“Like many other BHWs, she does this without complaint. But they should never have had to do it without the support they rightfully deserve,” Legarda said.

She said the ability of BHWs to serve effectively depends on how much priority each LGU gives to health services and facilities.

“Without sufficient resources, we are failing both our health workers and the communities that rely on them,” she said.

SB 2838 seeks to address these gaps by professionalizing BHWs and ensuring they receive fair compensation, training, and inclusion in the government plantilla — a move that Legarda said is a necessary correction of a long-standing injustice.

The measure also grants BHWs incentives and benefits, including monthly honoraria, transportation and subsistence allowances, hazard pay, insurance coverage, health emergency allowances, a December cash gift, and a dedicated service recognition incentive.

“By providing these long-overdue benefits, we are finally giving them the reward they have long deserved,” Legarda said.

The measure’s counterpart bill, House Bill (HB) No.6557, was approved on final reading at the House of Representatives on Dec. 13, 2022. (PNA)