A lawmaker is calling on Congress to approve a bill that would provide higher benefits and hazard pay for barangay officials, following the killing of two captains in separate incidents on the same day.
Las Piñas Rep. Mark Anthony Santos said he filed House Bill No. 2004 or Barangay Workers’ Benefits Act, which aims to provide additional protection and support to officials who face heavy duties and dangers every day.
According to him, barangay workers have long served as frontliners during disasters, emergencies, and security problems, but many still do not have adequate benefits or hazard compensation. Santos added that it is time to correct the lack of protection for those at the grassroots level.
The call came after Oscar “Dodong” Bucol Jr., captain of Barangay Tres de Mayo in Digos City, was shot dead while livestreaming. In Pampanga, Jinky Quiambao, captain of Barangay Balibago, was killed after being shot by two men.
Under the proposal, barangay officials will receive hazard pay, GSIS membership, PhilHealth coverage, and PagIBIG enrollment. Santos stressed that it is unacceptable that they continue to work without adequate protection, especially since they are the first responders to the community's problems.
