We are sorry, the requested page does not exist
Olympic, outreach cap fire prevention month
Olympic, outreach cap fire prevention month.....»»
2 dead, 34 injured in road crashes in Philippines over weekend
MANILA, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Two people died and 34 others were hurt in two separate road crashes in the Philippines over the weekend, local authorities said Sunday. A municipal disaster prevention official said a female bus collector was killed after a passenger bus rammed into a trailer truck parked on the roadside in a town in Davao de Oro province in the southern Philippines around 4 a.m. local time on Sunda.....»»
Killua’s owner sues ‘killer’ of golden retriever
PAWS tells Rappler that Killua tested positive for rabies, but it warns it 'may not be accurate due to the fact that the body had already been buried for five days prior to testing and may have been contaminated'.....»»
Go extends aid to Muntinlupa fire victims
In observance of Fire Prevention Month, Sen. Bong Go and his Malasakit Team distributed aid on March 21 to almost 1,000 families in Alabang, Muntinlupa who were affected by a recent fire......»»
2 dead, 34 injured in road crashes in Philippines over weekend
MANILA, March 24 (Xinhua) -- Two people died and 34 others were hurt in two separate road crashes in the Philippines over the weekend, local authorities said Sunday. A municipal disaster prevention official said a female bus collector was killed after a passenger bus rammed into a trailer truck parked on the roadside in a town in Davao de Oro province in the southern Philippines around 4 a.m. local time on Sunda.....»»
84 die of rabies in 2024
Eighty-four people have died due to rabies infection this year, prompting the Department of Health (DOH) to remind dog owners yesterday to secure their pets when outdoors......»»
OFW aspirants told: Engage with licensed recruitment agencies only
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The regional director of the Department of Migrant Workers in Central Visayas (DMW-7) warned aspiring Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) to engage with only legitimate and licensed recruitment agencies. Lawyer Karl Arriola, DMW-7 director, told CDN Digital that even if he was a lawyer, he still subscribed to the doctors’ advice: Prevention.....»»
US Federal Reserve holds steady
The US Federal Reserve decided to hold its interest rates steady for the 5th consecutive meeting......»»
80,000 health workers axed by new barangay execs
The Department of Health has ordered its regional offices nationwide to “protect” all barangay health workers following the “unjust” dismissal of more than 80,000 BHWs by newly elected barangay officials......»»
Retain barangay health workers, Tolentino asks village execs
Sen. Francis Tolentino appealed to newly elected barangay officials not to replace barangay health workers (BHWs). .....»»
Bong Go pushes for better compensation and benefits for BHWs
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go is advocating for better compensation and benefits for Barangay Health Workers considering their critical role in the country’s healthcare system especially in bringing public health services closer to the grassroots. In an interview on Tuesday, 24 October, during a visit to projects he earlier supported in Kapalong, Davao del Norte, Go acknowledged the BHW’s sacrifices and contributions at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Unang-una, ito pong BHW, nagpapasalamat po ako sa ating mga Barangay Health Workers. Isa po sila sa hero ng ating panahon ng pandemya,” Go stated. “Malaki po ang ginagampanan ng ating barangay health workers sa panahon ng pandemya. Hindi natin mararating itong kinaroroonan natin sa COVID response kung hindi po sa kanilang sakripisyo. Sila po ang umaalalay sa barangay… sila po ang nag-aalaga para sa early detection ng sakit upang hindi na mas lumala pa,” he added. To honor their contributions, the senator said he has filed Senate Bill No. (SBN) 427, known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, which proposes to provide BHWs a monthly honorarium, along with a comprehensive package of benefits, including allowances, job security, regular training, and skill development opportunities. The proposed benefits are seen as an extension and enhancement of the existing benefits under RA 7883, which already provides various incentives to dedicated BHWs. “Kaya meron po akong nai-file sa Senado, ang BHW Compensation Act. Na-hearing na po ito sa Subcommittee on Health sa pangunguna ni Senator JV (Ejercito), at meron pang mga susunod na committee hearings,” said Go. “Papakinggan po natin ang mga LGUs. S’yempre, unang-una rito, ‘yung kakayahan po nilang magbigay ng kompensasyon,” he added. The bill, if enacted, also extends benefits from key institutions such as the Government Service Insurance System, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund. Aside from these legislative efforts, Go also filed SBN 2399, which proposes to declare April 7 as Barangay Health and Nutrition Workers Day. "I also filed SBN 2399 to give due recognition to the contribution of all barangay health and nutrition workers in the delivery of our primary healthcare services in the country," he said. The post Bong Go pushes for better compensation and benefits for BHWs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go recognizes barangay health workers’ role in community development
Following his visit to Babak District the previous day, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health and a staunch advocate of community development, attended another Provincial Health Information Management System Orientation in the Island Garden City of Samal, Davao del Norte on Wednesday, 25 October. The said program aims to enhance healthcare delivery, streamline information flow, and ensure that citizens across the region have access to quality health services. Go personally accorded recognition to Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) for their efforts to promote the health and well-being of their constituents. He also noted that BHWs are the backbone of healthcare in the country, acting as the first line of defense in ensuring the welfare of their respective communities. "Bilang isang senador gusto kong pasalamatan ang ating mga barangay health workers. Hindi natin mararating ito ngayon kung hindi dahil sa inyong sakripisyo na magserbisyo. Dapat kayo ang pasalamatan ngayong araw. Palakpakan natin ang ating mga barangay health workers,” expressed Go. “Sa totoo lang sa panahon ng pandemya nahirapan talaga tayo. Pero (dahil) sa inyong pagtutulungan at pagserbisyo sa mamamayan, nalampasan natin ito. Hindi tayo makapag-gather ngayon o makapagtipon kung hindi dahil sa inyo. Ganito man ang inyong trabaho, nakita ko ang importansya at kung anong serbisyo para sa ating mga kababayan lalo na sa barangay level ang iniaambag ninyo,” he continued. During the event, Go was also joined by Councilor Sonny Lanorias, BHW City Coordinator Christine Enriquez Lara, BHW District Federation President Alicia Sastrillas, and District Coordinator Arlene Pacquaio, among others. The senator also extended assistance to around 200 BHWs present, such as gift packs, masks, vitamins, shirts, meals, and balls for basketball and volleyball. He also gave away bicycles, mobile phones, shoes, and watches to select recipients. He also extended similar assistance to the 201 BHWs who attended the previous day. On October 23, around 250 BHWs were also given similar assistance by his staff. Continuing his message, Go pledged his commitment to working with the local government to ensure that BHWs receive proper training, resources, and compensation. The lawmaker outlined his legislative initiatives, specifically on two key bills: Senate Bill No. (SBN) 197 or the proposed Magna Carta for Barangays, and SBN 427, or the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Bill. The proposed Magna Carta for Barangays aims to bolster support for barangays, enabling them to effectively carry out their responsibilities. This measure proposes that barangay officials, including the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and the barangay treasurer, be accorded treatment similar to that of regular government employees. If this bill becomes law, it will entitle them to salaries, benefits, allowances, and other related perks. On the other hand, SBN 427 proposed granting BHWs a monthly honorarium, coupled with other benefits encompassing allowances, job security, consistent training, and opportunities for skill development. Furthermore, the bill extends these benefits to encompass support from institutions like the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), and the Pag-IBIG Fund. “Na-hearing na po ito sa sub-committee on Health sa pangunguna ni Senator JV (Ejercito) at mayroon pang mga susunod na committee hearings at papakinggan po ang mga LGUs syempre, unang-una rito ‘yung kakayahan po nilang magbigay ng kompensasyon,” shared Go in an interview after his visit to Kapalong on October 24. “Ito pong bill na ito kung saan po ay magkakaroon sila ng mga karagdagang benepisyo… Kung sakaling maisabatas magkakaroon po sila ng monthly honorarium. Kasama na diyan ang job security, regular trainings, skill development opportunities, along with a potential to acquire civil service eligibility,” he continued. Furthermore, Go also referenced SBN 2399, a proposal aimed at declaring April 7 as Barangay Health and Nutrition Workers (BHNW) Day. This initiative acknowledges the pivotal role played by BHNWs in the delivery of primary healthcare services within communities. Go has reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing healthcare accessibility and quality. This commitment is manifested through his backing of the continued operations of Malasakit Centers, the construction of Super Health Centers, and the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers across the nation. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers program is designed to help ensure that particularly poor and indigent patients have convenient access to the medical assistance programs offered by partnered agencies. This was institutionalized in 2019 through the passage of RA 11463, which was principally authored and sponsored by Go. Currently, 159 operational Malasakit centers have assisted more than seven million Filipinos nationwide, according to the Department of Health (DOH). The senator was likewise instrumental in pushing for adequate funding to ensure that more Super Health Centers are established across the country. Some 307 Super Health Centers were funded in 2022 and 322 more in 2023, through the initiative of Go, DOH, local government units (LGUs), and fellow lawmakers. The Super Health Centers will offer a range of healthcare services, including database management, out-patient, birthing, isolation, diagnostic (laboratory: x-ray, ultrasound), pharmacy, and ambulatory surgical unit. Other available services are eye, ear, nose, and throat (EENT) service, oncology centers, physical therapy and rehabilitation centers, and telemedicine, through which remote diagnosis and treatment of patients are made possible. Moreover, the senator is the principal sponsor and one of the authors of Republic Act 11959 or the Regional Specialty Centers Act. The said law mandates the establishment of Regional Specialty Centers within existing DOH regional hospitals. During the previous day, Go also visited Davao del Norte to participate in the blessing and turnover of a multipurpose building in the Municipality of Kapalong. This project was funded with Go's support as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Finance. He also inspected Balay ni Maria, a facility completed in 2020, and another project he supported the funding of. This infrastructure served as an isolation center during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. The post Bong Go recognizes barangay health workers’ role in community development appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Ejercito pushes passage of Magna Carta for BHWs
LAPU-LAPU CITY, Cebu – Senador JV Ejercito is urging his fellow senators to also support the passage of the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers (BHWs). Ejercito, who visited Cebu on Friday, October 6, to attend the BHWs Summit held at IEC Convention Center in Cebu City, said that if approved, the Magna Carta would.....»»
Bong Go hails barangay health workers as community heroes
Senator Christopher "Bong" Go expressed his appreciation and support for the crucial role of barangay health workers (BHWs) in every community and reaffirmed his commitment to promoting their welfare, in a ceremony held on 11 August in Catbalogan City, Samar, In his address, Go acknowledged the vital contributions of BHWs, stating, "Sa panahon ng pandemya, kayo po ang ating mga bayani sa bawat komunidad. Sa inyong sakripisyo at walang kapagurang serbisyo, inalagaan ninyo ang ating mga kababayan. Salamat po sa inyong sakripisyo." The senator further recognized the relentless support BHWs have provided to all sectors of the community, from the elderly to children, especially in remote areas lacking medical professionals. "Nagpupugay ako sa inyong walang sawang pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan — matatanda man o bata — at sa inyong serbisyo sa mga malalayong lugar kung saan kapos sa mga doktor," he added. Emphasizing his dedication to the welfare of the BHWs, Go mentioned that he has filed Senate Bill No. 427, the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, to ensure proper compensation and benefits for community health workers. "Ang layunin ng batas na ito ay hindi lamang magbigay ng monthly honorarium na P3,000, kundi pati na rin ang mga allowances, privileges, Christmas bonus, annual training, at iba pa kung maisabatas ito," said the senator. He also mentioned previous efforts to provide Health Emergency Allowance for medical front liners during the pandemic, urging the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to revisit and release those who have not yet received it. "Nauna na nating isinulong na magkaroon kayo ng Health Emergency Allowance noong pandemya at patuloy pa rin ang panawagan ko sa DOH at DBM na balikan at bayaran ang mga hindi pa nakakatanggap nito," he declared. The event celebrated the oath-taking of 2,000 BHWs, a significant step for Samar's healthcare system. Go and his team then proceeded to assist the BHWs as they distributed food packs, vitamins, masks, and snacks. Select recipients also received shirts, a bicycle, a cellphone, a watch, and shoes, as well as balls for basketball and volleyball. The BHW Partylist, represented by Cong. Angelica Natasha Co, initiated a distribution of financial assistance to qualified BHWs through the Department of Social Welfare and Development's Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation program. Meanwhile, the provincial government of Samar led by Governor Sharee Ann Tan also provided blood pressure monitors for the BHWs. "Hindi ko po makakalimutan ang inyong ginawa sa panahon ng krisis, at hangad ko na pagtuunan pa ng pansin ang inyong kapakanan. Muli, maraming salamat sa inyong sakripisyo at dedikasyon. Mabuhay po kayong lahat!" he said. Go then reiterated the importance of investing in the health sector, especially in areas where access to healthcare is limited. This is why he likewise encouraged the residents to seek medical assistance from the Malasakit Center located at Samar Provincial Hospital in Catbalogan City, which he visited that day to aid patients and front liners. A brainchild of Go, the Malasakit Centers program was institutionalized under Republic Act No. 11463, which he principally authored and sponsored. The program helps ensure that particularly poor and indigent patients can more conveniently get medical assistance from the government. There are now 158 Malasakit Centers throughout the country, which have already served seven million Filipinos, according to the DOH. Go also sponsored the law mandating the establishment of the Samar Island Medical Center in Calbayog City. Go then acknowledged the efforts of local officials and agencies for their service to the people, including Governor Sharee Ann Tan, Cong. Angelica Natasha Co, and Major General Camilo Ligayo of the 8th Infantry Division, among others. In the past years, Go, who is Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, also extended his support to the rehabilitation of farm-to-market roads in Basey, Marabut, Talalora, and Tarangnan; construction of farm-to-market roads in Pinabacdao; construction of public market in San Jorge, Talalora and Tarangnan; construction of a multipurpose building in Catbalogan City; construction of evacuation centers in Sta. Margarita and Zumarraga; construction of a seawall in Sto. Niño; and acquisition of a dump truck in Jiabong to create more economic opportunities and help improve living conditions in the province. On the same day, Go also led the inauguration and ribbon-cutting of the Tandaya multipurpose hall in the provincial capitol compound which he was instrumental in ensuring funding for during the Duterte administration. He also attended the Tandaya Festival as the guest of honor. Lastly, he also inspected the construction of a building that will serve as a new city hall for Catbalogan which was funded through Go’s efforts. Other projects that Go supported were also inspected that day, particularly the construction of a new Sports Complex and the Lagundi-San Andres Access Road. The post Bong Go hails barangay health workers as community heroes appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Kuya Bong bats for improved BHW compensations
Senator Christopher Lawrence “Bong” Go has renewed his call to prioritize and elevate the status of Barangay Health Workers during a public hearing conducted by the Health Subcommittee on the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers. The lawmaker who also chairs the Senate Committee on Health stressed the critical need to harmonize benefits for barangay personnel to align with the principles of the Local Government Code. The code delegates the provision of essential services, including health and social welfare, to local government units and, by extension, to the barangay level. He also underlined the vital role of BHWs in driving the primary health care approach towards health empowerment as he acknowledged the BHWs’ sacrifices, especially during the pandemic, and underscored their continued service to both the elderly and youth in the community. Go also highlighted the BHWs’ indispensable role in providing health services in remote areas where doctors are either scarce or unavailable and to recognize this, the senator filed Senate Bill 427, also known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, which if enacted, will offer a monthly honorarium of P3,000 for BHWs. Once passed, the bill would ensure that BHWs will be entitled to allowances, benefits, privileges, security of tenure, Christmas bonus, annual training and skills upgrading, and civil service eligibility. The proposed measure will also entitle BHWs to the Government Service Insurance System, Philippine Health Insurance Corporation and Pag-IBIG Fund benefits as it reinforces the benefits and privileges under Republic Act 7883, or “The Barangay Health Workers’ Benefits and Incentives Act of 1995,” which includes free legal services and preferential access to loans. Go also pointed out the necessity for continuous improvements in compensation for health workers. “It is an indisputable fact that many have been working long hours, often without adequate protection and compensation. Hence, there is still more to be done to ensure that our health workers are properly compensated and protected,” Go said. He also urged relevant government departments, particularly the Department of Health and the Department of Budget and Management to ensure that the rights and benefits of BHWs are protected and fulfilled, especially after the lifting of the state of public health emergency due to Covid-19. The post Kuya Bong bats for improved BHW compensations appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go bats for improved compensation, benefits for BHWs
During a public hearing conducted by the Health Subcommittee on the Magna Carta of Barangay Health Workers, and joint with the Committees on Local Government, Ways and Means, and Finance on 7 August, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go reiterated the importance of prioritizing and elevating the status of Barangay Health Workers (BHWs). Go stressed the critical need to harmonize benefits for barangay personnel to align with the principles of the Local Government Code. The code delegates the provision of essential services, including health and social welfare, to local government units and, by extension, to the barangay level. He also underlined the vital role of BHWs in driving the primary healthcare approach towards health empowerment. "Naiintindihan ko po ang inyong trabaho. Sa kakaikot ko sa buong Pilipinas, sa kaka-inaugurate namin ng mga Super Health Centers (SHCs), groundbreaking ng SHCs, nandiyan talaga ‘yung mga BHW. Talagang kayo po ang nagsasakripisyo,” Go said. He went on to acknowledge the BHWs' sacrifices, especially during the pandemic, and underscored their continued service to both the elderly and youth in the community. "Salamat po sa inyong sakripisyo. Maging matanda, o maging bata, kita ninyo, nagtatrabaho pa rin sila. Dapat po'y bigyan sila ng kompensasyon. Makikita ninyo sa lahat, sa buong Pilipinas, na willing po sila magtrabaho. Tulungan po natin sila,” he added. Go also highlighted the BHWs' indispensable role in providing health services in remote areas where doctors are either scarce or unavailable. “Ang ating mga barangay health workers ang nagsisilbing frontliners lalung-lalo na po sa malalayong lugar. Sila po ang nag-aasikaso. Sila po ang tumutulong sa paggamot ng ating mga kababayan, lalung lalo na sa mga komunidad na walang doktor,” he said. To recognize this, Go filed Senate Bill No. 427, also known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation Act, which if enacted, will offer a monthly honorarium of P3,000 for BHWs. Once passed, the bill would ensure that BHWs will be entitled to allowances, benefits, privileges, security of tenure, Christmas bonus, annual training and skills upgrading, and civil service eligibility. The post Bong Go bats for improved compensation, benefits for BHWs appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go cites crucial role of barangays in nation-building
Emphasizing that empowering the barangays is the foundation of a strong and resilient nation, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go highlighted the indispensable role of barangay leaders in shaping communities and driving progress at the grassroots level in his speech during the Liga ng Barangay of Zamboanga City General Membership Assembly and Barangay Congress held at Makati Palace Hotel on Thursday, 27 July. Go first expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the barangay leaders for their tireless efforts toward uplifting their respective communities. He acknowledged their unwavering dedication and service, which often went unnoticed amidst the larger national issues. “Ako po’y nagpapasalamat sa ating barangay officials sa lahat ng inyong serbisyo sa bayan. Hindi po natin mararating kung asan tayo ngayon kung hindi dahil sa inyong sakripisyo,” said Go. “Ang tema ng pagtitipong ito, ‘Leaving a Legacy in the Barangay, Fulfilling Exemplary Leadership by the Way of Conscientious Governance’ ay napapanahon at napakahalaga. Sa panahon ngayon na marami tayong kinakaharap na pagsubok, mahalaga na patuloy tayong magtaglay ng responsableng pamumuno para sa ating mga barangay,” he continued. Go emphasized the significance of local governance and how it directly impacts the lives of ordinary citizens. He reiterated that effective governance starts at the grassroots level, and barangay leaders play a pivotal role in fostering a sense of unity, camaraderie, and cooperation among community members. As the senator delved into the challenges faced by barangay leaders, he expressed his commitment to working on legislation that would bolster their capabilities and support their initiatives. Go highlighted the need for increased funding, better resources, and comprehensive training for barangay officials, equipping them to handle the diverse needs of their communities. As a member of the Senate Committee on Local Government, Go is pushing to further empower barangays as the fundamental governing units in communities. He cited that one of his advocacies is to enhance public service delivery and bring the government closer to the people. Go has filed two proposed legislative measures to support and acknowledge the hard work of barangay officials and health workers. The first one, Senate Bill No. 197 or the Magna Carta for Barangays, aims to grant similar treatment to barangay officials as regular government employees. Under the proposed bill, the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and the barangay treasurer will be eligible to receive salaries, benefits, allowances (such as hazard pay, representation, and transportation allowance), 13th-month pay, and other perks that regular government employees enjoy. The proposed measure also empowers the Sangguniang Barangay to determine the appropriate number of permanent barangay tanods during their administration, with appointed tanods entitled to honoraria, allowances, and other benefits. Go's motivation behind reintroducing the Magna Carta for Barangays is to improve the general welfare of barangays and their residents, elevate the economic and social status of barangay officials, and provide every barangay with the basic facilities for decent, healthy, and comfortable living. “Alam n’yo mga barangay captains, you are superstar in your own right sa inyong lugar. Ang authority malaki talaga ang inyong papel sa lahat, sa peace and order, sa basic services, delivery of goods, at lahat. Ako matagal na ako, galing ako sa ibaba, diyan ako sa city hall sa Davao noon,” said Go. “Full support po ako sa inyo, kung anong maitutulong ko sa mga pasyente ninyo, tutulong ako. Ang pakiusap ko lang sa inyo huwag n’yo pong pabayaan ang mga mahihirap nating kababayan, ‘yung mga helpless and hopeless nating kababayan na walang malapitan kung hindi tayo pong nasa gobyerno,” he added. Go's advocacy also extends to the indispensable role of barangay health workers (BHWs) who act as the first point of contact for healthcare in their communities. To ensure fair compensation and benefits for these front liners, he introduced SBN 427, also known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation. The proposed bill recognizes the invaluable contributions of BHWs in delivering primary healthcare services, raising health awareness, and safeguarding the well-being of the community. It aligns with President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.’s call to prioritize the welfare of BHWs, especially given their significant contributions during the nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Go firmly believes that prioritizing such measures will not only acknowledge the crucial role of BHWs but also guarantee fair compensation and adequate protection for them while fulfilling their duties. He lauded the dedication of these health workers, particularly in remote areas, where they play a vital role in providing medical assistance to communities without easy access to doctors. “Mayroon lang akong isi-share sa inyo, sana po ay maalala ninyo ito sa mahabang panahon. Minsan lang tayo dadaan sa mundong ito. Kung ano pong kabutihan o tulong na pwede nating gawin sa ating kapwa, gawin na po natin ngayon dahil hindi na tayo babalik sa mundong ito. Ako po ang inyong Senator Kuya Bong Go, patuloy na magseserbisyo sa inyong lahat. Dahil ako po ay naniniwala na ang serbisyo sa tao ay serbisyo po ‘yan sa Diyos, serbisyo kay Allah. Maraming salamat. Mahal na mahal ko po kayo,” Go concluded. On the same day, Go distributed assistance to disadvantaged students in Biñan City, Laguna, and to fire victims in Cavite City. The post Bong Go cites crucial role of barangays in nation-building appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go advocates for Magna Carta for Barangays, BHW Compensation bills
Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, as a member of the Senate Committee on Local Government, is advocating for further empowering barangays as the basic governing units in communities in order to improve public service delivery and bring government closer to the people. He has filed two proposed legislative measures that seek to support and recognize hardworking barangay officials and health workers. These are Senate Bill No. 197 or the Magna Carta for Barangays and SBN 427, also known as the Barangay Health Workers Compensation. “These dedicated officials work tirelessly to ensure the welfare and well-being of their constituents, making them essential pillars of effective governance,” Go said. He said barangay officials play a vital role in maintaining peace and order, delivering basic services, and promoting social welfare at the grassroots level. They are the backbone of local governance and serve as frontliners, who directly address the needs of their communities, Go added. SBN 197 proposes that barangay officials, including the Punong Barangay, members of the Sangguniang Barangay, the Sangguniang Kabataan chairperson, the barangay secretary, and barangay treasurer, receive similar treatment as regular government employees. If enacted, it will make barangay officials eligible to receive salaries, benefits, allowances (such as hazard pay, representation and transportation allowance), 13th month pay, and other perks that regular government employees receive. Under the proposed measure, the Sangguniang Barangay will also have the power to determine the appropriate number of permanent barangay tanods during their administration. The appointed tanods will also be entitled to honoraria, allowances, and other benefits. “I originally filed the Magna Carta for Barangays last 18th Congress and I refiled it dito po sa 19th Congress since I believe that we need to improve the general welfare of our barangays and their residents, raise the economic and social status of barangay officials, and grant every barangay the basic facilities for decent, healthy and comfortable living,” Go said. “Naintindihan ko po ang trabaho po ng ating mga barangay officials. Matagal po akong nagtrabaho kay dating pangulong (Rodrigo) Duterte (kahit noong mayor pa siya). Yan po ang unang-una – sa umaga pa lang, nakapila na yan, dala-dala ang mga problema ng barangay. At pinakahuling oras hanggang gabi, sila po yung nandyan sa baba, na talagang humihingi ng tulong at nagdadala po ng serbisyo sa kanilang nasasakupan. Lahat ng problema – patay, pasyente, away sa barangay, lahat. Lahat po ng problema sa barangay nila, sila po ang nag-aasikaso,” he added. Go's advocacy also extends to the vital role of barangay health workers (BHWs) who tirelessly serve as the first point of contact for healthcare in their communities. Thus, the senator introduced SBN 427 to provide fair compensation and benefits to these frontliners. The bill recognizes the critical contributions of BHWs in delivering primary healthcare services, raising awareness on health issues, and ensuring the well-being of the community. This action is also in accordance with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s call to give importance to the well-being of BHWs, who have significantly contributed to the nation's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. Go said that if the proposal becomes a law, it will not only acknowledge the valuable contributions of the BHWs but will also guarantee that they receive fair compensation and adequate protection while performing their duties. “Ang mga barangay health workers natin ay nasa frontline po lalung-lalo na po sa malalayong lugar. Sila po ang nag-aasikaso. Sila po ang tumutulong sa paggagamot ng ating mga kababayan, lalung-lalo na sa mga komunidad na walang doktor,” Go said. “Napapanahon naman po na sila ay bigyan natin ng sapat na halaga, alagaan po natin sila at bigyan natin sila ng sapat na benepisyo,” he added. By highlighting the important roles played by the barangay officials and recognizing their significant contributions, Go aims to improve the welfare and effectiveness of local governance. These proposed legislations hold the potential to uplift the status of barangay officials and health workers, fostering a stronger and more responsive community-driven governance system throughout the nation, Go said. ### The post Bong Go advocates for Magna Carta for Barangays, BHW Compensation bills appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Liloan lechon purchases flagged
The Commission on Audit on Friday disclosed that it has flagged down the purchase of lechons of the municipality of Liloan in Cebu province. In its audit report, the CoA said that the local government of Liloan purchased 207 pieces of lechon for team building, religious activities, founding anniversaries of private groups, graduation exercises, general assemblies and get-togethers which totaled to P1.357 million. It also revealed that the biggest lechon purchases were made on 3 October 2022 amounting to P100,500 for 14 lechons for “all barangays of the municipality” with no purpose indicated, followed by the purchase of eight lechons for P48,000 on 7 February 2022 for the “Simeon Ayuda Elem. Christmas Light Up.” The CoA also flagged the P45,500 worth of lechons on 3 October 2022 for the Liloan National High School, Simeon Ayuda Elementary School, Cotcot BHWs, and Barangay Poblacion Capability Building and Simeon Ayuda Elementary School Moving Up and Graduation ceremony. It also reported the purchase of seven lechons for P45,500 on 12 September 2022 for the San Fernando Rey Parish, Barangay Council, Midwife and BNS of San Vicente Team Building and Barrio Fiesta Knights of Columbus Get Together. Additionally, there were also lechons bought for organizations such as the Philippine Guardians Brotherhood Inc. for their Annual Cebu Provincial 23rd Founding Anniversary, Simeon Ayuda PTA for capability building and the Knights of Columbus, among others. However, Liloan Mayor Aljew Frasco clarified the issue, saying that receiving the CoA’s audit report on 7 June 2023 which conveyed “unmodified opinion on Liloan’s financial report for 31 December 2022.” “Receiving CoA’s Highest Rating for unmodified opinion validates, among others, Liloan’s responsible and justified procurement decisions, highlighting the transparency and accountability inherent in its operations,” Frasco said. He added that the CoA has been consistently recognizing Liloan with the highest rating since the time of then mayor and now Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco. “I would like to clarify that the CoA audit covers the year 2022 and the procurement of the lechon was not a one-time purchase but rather made in different dates for several occasions such as inaugurations, general assemblies, and graduations in support to official activities,” the mayor stressed. The post Liloan lechon purchases flagged appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»
Bong Go extends assistance to BHWs in Quezon
Underscoring the crucial role played by barangay health workers, Senator Bong Go, Chair of the Senate Committee on Health and Demography, extended assistance to hundreds of these frontline heroes in Sariaya, Quezon on Wednesday, 31 May. In his video message, Go highlighted the indispensable services rendered by these dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to safeguard the health and well-being of their communities. “Barangay healthcare workers form the backbone of healthcare services at the grassroots level. Despite limited resources and often working in challenging conditions, these unsung heroes serve as the first point of contact for many Filipinos seeking medical assistance,” highlighted Go. “They provide essential healthcare services. Their tireless efforts contribute significantly to the overall health and well-being of their respective communities,” he continued. As a lawmaker, Go has consistently championed the cause of healthcare workers. He filed Senate Bill No. 427 which seeks to mandate the provision of allowances and incentives to barangay health workers. The proposed measure seeks to provide a monthly allowance of PhP3,000 to all barangay health workers. They will also be entitled to benefits and privileges and security of tenure if enacted into law. SBG's team distributed masks, snacks, and shirts to 408 health workers while they also gave away shoes, mobile phones, and balls for basketball to select recipients. Lastly, the Department of Social Welfare and Development extended financial assistance. The relief activity was held at Sariaya Sports Complex. Go also expressed that he believes that each person deserves quality healthcare, regardless of their social or economic status. It is for this reason that he pushed for the enactment of the Malasakit Centers Act in 2019 which provides convenient access to medical assistance programs by the government. The center brings together concerned agencies, such as DSWD, the Department of Health, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation, and the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, to assist poor and indigent patients with their medical expenses and help reduce it to the lowest amount possible. To date, there are 157 operational centers in the country. Apart from Sariaya Super Health Center, DOH has also identified several other locations for the Super Health Centers in the province, such as Agdangan, Alabat, Atimonan, Candelaria, Dolores, Gumaca, Infanta, Lopez, Mauban, Quezon, Tagkawayan, Tiaong, Catanauan, and Perez. "Nalulungkot po ako tuwing naririnig ko 'yung mga kababayan nating mahihirap na ayaw magpa-checkup dahil takot po sa babayaran sa ospital. Huwag po kayong gano'n. Magtulungan po tayo." "Sino ba namang magtutulungan kung 'di tayo lang po kapwa natin Pilipino? Nandirito po ako na handang magserbisyo sa inyong lahat, mga kababayan ko," he added. Meanwhile, as an adopted son of CALABARZON and as Vice Chair of the Senate Committee on Finance, Go remains committed to contributing to the progress of the town. He supported the funding for various infrastructure projects. These include the construction of slope protection systems along the Lagnas River, the establishment of the Sariaya Bypass, the rehabilitation of a bridge on the provincial road, the implementation of a potable water system, and the concreting of roads at the New Local Government Complex. On May 28, Go visited Sariaya town where he personally inspected a Super Health Center and spearheaded a distribution activity for a thousand struggling residents. The post Bong Go extends assistance to BHWs in Quezon appeared first on Daily Tribune......»»