Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) from across the country have thrown their full support behind the re-election bid of Sen. Bam Aquino as they believe in his track record in helping the basic sectors of society.

In a manifesto signed during its meeting in Legazpi City, the Barangay Health Workers (BHW) Party List said Sen. Bam will help push its proposals for the betterment of the sector it represents. The meeting was attended by around 400 to 500 BHWs.

“We firmly believe that Sen. Bam Aquino, whose ideals are for the betterment of the Filipino people, shall specifically champion these special concerns in the Upper House,” the group said in its manifesto.

“In order for him to champion this cause, we are signifying our utmost support by giving him our solid vote this coming May 13, 2019 Senatorial Elections,” it added.

The support from BHWs adds to the list of different sectors, like the transportation sector, signifying support for Sen. Bam, citing his important role in the Senate in advancing sectoral interest.

Among the advocacies being pushed by BHW Party List is the capacity building for BHWs through training and workshop for them to effectively exercise their duties.

Also, the party list is pushing for sufficient financial empowerment for BHWs such as monthly honorarium through the Department of Health (DOH), Philhealth coverage and pension plan.

The group also pushes for the implementation of the benefits under Republic Act No. 7883 or the Act Granting Benefits and Incentives to Accredited Barangay Health Workers and security of tenure for BHWs.

For his part, Sen. Bam recognized the important role of BHWs play in keeping communities healthy, adding they should be given the proper compensation and other benefits for their efforts.

“Isa sa mga kinikilala natin na mga bayani ay ang ating masisipag na Baranggay Health Workers,” said Sen. Bam, underscoring their role in the dissemination of health-related information in the communities.

“Importante sila sa pagpapalaganap ng mga impormasyon para sa kalusugan,” added Sen. Bam, who filed Senate Bill No. 700 or the “Support for Barangay Workers Act”, which provide assistance to BHWs and barangay tanod.

The measure calls for the payment of honoraria, Philhealth coverage and free legal service through government lawyers for BHWs.