In a significant show of support for community healthcare frontliners, over 9,000 Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) from across Cebu Province gathered at the Cebu Coliseum on Friday, December 5, for the 2025 Cebu Province BHW Summit. The event, held in celebration of BHW Day, was marked by a major announcement from Governor Pamela Baricuatro regarding new financial incentives and enhanced support for the sector.
Governor Announces Substantial Cash Rewards and Support
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Governor Baricuatro unveiled a direct support package for the health workers. According to a statement from the Provincial Public Information Office released on the same day, the governor declared that 100 retiring BHWs will each receive a cash incentive of P10,000. Furthermore, all active BHWs in the province are set to receive P7,000 each. This financial boost will be complemented by the provision of new uniforms and noche buena packs, ensuring both recognition and tangible aid for their service.
The announcement was met with roaring cheers and applause from the thousands of participants, highlighting the profound impact of this commitment. Governor Baricuatro took the opportunity to underscore the critical role BHWs play as frontline providers of community-based healthcare. She detailed their invaluable contributions in key areas including:
- Disease prevention and control
- Maternal and child health programs
- Promotion of rural health initiatives
Recognition for Resilience and Partnership
Beyond their daily duties, the Governor extended heartfelt gratitude for the BHWs' exceptional service in the wake of recent calamities. She specifically acknowledged their efforts following the powerful earthquake and the series of typhoons—Tino, Uwan, and Verbena—that tested the province's resilience.
In a powerful statement that resonated deeply with the audience, Baricuatro elevated their status, stating, "You are not just assistants. You are not extras. You are partners in building a healthier Cebu. You are the strength behind Cebu’s recovery and the hope behind our healthier future." This framing of BHWs as essential partners, rather than mere auxiliaries, formed the core message of her address.
Summit Focuses on Welfare and Institutional Support
The day-long summit served as more than just a venue for the governor's announcement. It also provided a platform to amplify the collective voice of the BHWs. Discussions and calls for action centered on pressing needs for the sector, primarily:
- Improved benefits and compensation
- Better working conditions
- Stronger institutional support from the provincial government
The event was attended by key provincial figures, including Provincial Board Member Stanley Caminero and Dr. Elisse Nicole Catalan, the Capitol Piso Health consultant, signifying the broad administrative support for the initiative.
The summit's program blended advocacy with camaraderie, featuring a lively zumba session and the Miss BHW competition, fostering a sense of community and celebration among the dedicated workers. This gathering of over 9,000 health workers stands as a testament to their unified presence and a clear step by the Cebu provincial government to bolster the backbone of its grassroots healthcare system.
