Senator Robinhood Padilla has filed Senate Bill 1615, proposing a Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) to provide benefits, incentives, and legal protections for frontline community health workers.
The measure seeks to formally recognize BHWs as essential government partners, granting them hazard allowances, retirement benefits, insurance, and access to government-backed loans.
Padilla emphasized that BHWs, who handle maternal care, immunization, disease surveillance, and health education, remain volunteers despite facing significant risks, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The bill also prohibits discrimination, safeguards their right to self-organize, and institutionalizes additional local government benefits under national standards.
Advocates say the legislation would improve BHW welfare while strengthening the country’s primary health care system.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 15, 2026
