Senator Erwin Tulfo filed Senate Bill 1612 seeking to raise the minimum salary grade of nurses in the public sector from SG 15 to SG 19 to address chronic understaffing, low pay, and the migration of Filipino nurses abroad.
The measure aims to amend the Philippine Nursing Act of 2002 and improve retention of skilled healthcare workers in government hospitals, rural health units, and other public health facilities.
Tulfo highlighted that nurses face overwhelming workloads, with some nurse-to-patient ratios reaching 1:40, putting patient safety at risk and contributing to burnout.
The bill emphasizes that better compensation is both a labor concern and a public health necessity, particularly in underserved areas.
Supporters say the salary upgrade would recognize the critical role of nurses and ensure a more stable and motivated healthcare workforce in the Philippines.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 16, 2026
