Congressional Push for Magna Carta to Secure Rights of Non-Uniformed Personnel
In a significant legislative move, Parañaque 2nd District Representative Brian Raymund Yamsuan is championing House Bill 4796, known as the Magna Carta for Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP). This proposed law aims to provide job security, decent salaries, and adequate benefits for civilian employees working in various uniformed agencies across the Philippines.
Addressing Wage Disparities and Job Insecurity
Representative Yamsuan highlighted a pressing issue: while military and uniformed personnel have seen salary and allowance increases this year, Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP) are being left behind. These civilian staff often receive low wages, handle heavy workloads, and lack sufficient benefits and job security. The bill seeks to rectify this imbalance by aligning the salary scales of NUP with those of uniformed personnel, ensuring fair compensation for their critical roles.
Scope and Key Provisions of the Magna Carta
The proposed Magna Carta covers NUP employed in several key agencies, including:
- Philippine National Police (PNP)
- Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP)
- Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP)
- Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)
- Bureau of Corrections (BuCor)
- Philippine Coast Guard (PCG)
- Department of National Defense (DND)
- National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA)
Key provisions of the bill include:
- Security of tenure to protect employees from unjust dismissal
- Overtime pay and hazard pay for additional or risky duties
- Comprehensive leave benefits for health and personal needs
- Retirement plans to ensure financial stability post-service
- Scholarship programs for dependents to support education
Recognizing the Vital Role of Non-Uniformed Personnel
Yamsuan emphasized that Non-Uniformed Personnel play an essential role in the smooth operation of agencies responsible for maintaining national order and security. Their contributions, though often behind the scenes, are crucial for administrative efficiency and support functions. The Magna Carta is framed as a necessary step to acknowledge their efforts and provide just compensation, fostering a more equitable work environment.
This legislative effort underscores a broader commitment to improving labor conditions in the public sector, particularly for those in supportive roles within security-focused organizations. If passed, the bill could set a precedent for similar measures benefiting other civilian employees in government agencies.
