NAGA Mayor Nelson Legacion has committed to prioritizing the welfare of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) by including in his legislative agenda the endorsement of a bill in the House of Representatives that provides BHWs with security of tenure.
During a consultation meeting with BHWs from the city’s 27 barangays over the weekend, Legacion, a lawyer, learned of their plight, particularly their vulnerability to dismissal by newly elected punong barangays.
According to the BHWs, their careers often depend on the discretion of the barangay captain, who may replace them regardless of their performance or contributions to the community.
Legacion assured the BHWs that once elected, he would draft a proposed bill to protect them from unjust dismissal, ensuring they can continue serving their communities without fear of being replaced.
“Insofar as they are performing their tasks, there is no reason for them to feel afraid or apprehensive that they might be replaced by the newly elected punong barangay,” he stressed.
The proposed legislation aims to address a common practice in the Philippines, where barangay workers, including BHWs, are replaced when a new punong barangay assumes office, often disregarding their years of service and dedication.
Legacion underscored that BHWs are vital partners of local government units (LGUs) and play a crucial role in delivering primary health care services in their communities.
As accredited partners of the Department of Health (DOH) and local health offices, BHWs undergo extensive training to provide essential health services. They are entitled to hazard and subsistence allowances, training and education opportunities, civil service eligibility, free legal aid, and easier access to loans. Legacion argued that these benefits would be undermined if BHWs are unable to achieve stability in their positions due to frequent replacements.
Legacion also revealed plans to collaborate with the BHW Partylist to draft and sponsor the proposed bill. Apart from the Barangay Health Workers Law, Legacion’s legislative priorities include the Anti-Troll Law, the extension of the legislative franchise of Casureco II, and the Solo Parents Act.
He is also pushing for amendments to specific sections of the Local Government Code, which pertain to disciplinary actions against local officials. Legacion aims to prevent higher LGU officials from abusing these provisions to target city and municipal officials through politically motivated cases.
“These legislative measures are designed to empower communities, protect public servants, and ensure a fairer governance system,” Legacion said.
By Jason B. Neola (CEPPIO).
