Davao City Councilor Advocates for Recognition and Incentives for Barangay Health Workers
In a significant move to address gaps in public health support, Davao City Councilor Atty. Diosdado Angelo Mahipus Jr. has introduced a proposed ordinance aimed at granting service recognition and incentives to barangay health workers (BHWs) and other volunteer personnel who were overlooked in last year's government budget allocations. The initiative seeks to rectify the exclusion of approximately 1,046 individuals from the Department of Budget and Management's (DBM) 2025 circulars, which currently only cover job order, contract-of-service, and plantilla employees for gratuity pay and service benefits.
Addressing Community Service Gaps
During a media interview at the Sangguniang Panlungsod on Tuesday, January 27, Mahipus emphasized the critical role of these volunteers, stating, "So atoang nahuna-hunaan na basin mauyunan sa konseho mastudyuhan, sa umaabot matagaan sila og ilaha pud nga paaboton in recognition of their service sa atoa pud tagsa-tagsa nga mga barangay." He further highlighted their dedication, noting, "Kay sila baya ma ulanan initan sa mga komunidad unya wala sila apil, so atoang paningkamutan na maapil." This underscores the ordinance's focus on honoring their invaluable contributions to community health, rather than merely providing financial rewards.
Proposed Ordinance Details and Compliance
The proposed measure would extend gratuity pay and special recognition incentives to barangay health workers, barangay nutrition scholars, and other volunteers who currently receive only honoraria. In his privilege speech at the council session, Mahipus pointed out that BHWs serve as the first line of defense in public health, yet they lack job security and adequate benefits. He moved for the speech to be considered on first reading and referred to the appropriate committee for further study.
Mahipus clarified that the ordinance is designed to comply with DBM regulations, respect national policies, and avoid misclassifying volunteers as employees. It aims to provide local-level recognition where national coverage has fallen short, ensuring a lawful and compassionate approach to supporting these essential workers.
Funding and Future Prospects
Regarding the incentive amounts for 2026, Mahipus explained that they would depend on the city's financial capabilities and the ordinance's approval process. "It will greatly depend on our financial capability, but before we can discuss funding, we need a legal basis to follow the ordinance," he said. He expressed hope for swift approval to include funding in Davao City's first supplemental budget for 2026, noting that BHWs currently receive only about ₱2,000 in honoraria as volunteers.
Beyond BHWs and nutrition scholars, Mahipus indicated plans to potentially expand the incentive program to include other barangay volunteers, contingent on available funds. This expansion reflects a broader commitment to recognizing community service across various roles.
Call for National-Level Amendments
In addition to local efforts, Mahipus urged the House of Representatives to amend the Magna Carta for Barangay Health Workers to enhance benefits at the national level. "This would be a huge help to the barangay health workers," he stated, acknowledging that amendments have long been stalled. He emphasized, "While action from the national government remains pending, the local government will do what it can in a lawful, responsible, and compassionate way."
The proposed amendments aim to provide mandatory monthly honoraria, hazard pay, transportation allowances, insurance coverage, and a one-time retirement cash incentive, addressing the insecure tenure and insufficient benefits that BHWs continue to face. This dual approach—local ordinance and national advocacy—highlights a comprehensive strategy to improve the welfare of these vital public health contributors.
