Antique: The Antique Provincial Board has approved on second reading an ordinance that proposes an increase in the annual remuneration of Child Development Workers (CDWs) from PHP 10,000 to PHP 15,000.

According to Philippines News Agency, Board Member Mayella Mae Plameras-Ladislao, the principal sponsor of Provincial Ordinance No. 2021-296, emphasized during the provincial board regular session that the provincial government recognizes the sacrifices of the CDWs, justifying the increase in their remuneration.

The ordinance, titled ‘An Ordinance Granting Financial Remuneration and Privileges to CDWs in the Province of Antique, Appropriating Funds Thereof and for Other Purposes’, aligns with the government’s commitment to Early Childhood Care and Development (ECCD). The Provincial Government supports the ECCD program and campaign, which enhances the child’s social, physical, psychological, and intellectual capacity during early years.

The CDWs play a vital role in early childhood education, providing essential care, nurturing, and foundational learning. The pay increase is supported by evidence of their significant impact on children’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. Around 760 CDWs will receive the increased remuneration on December 15.

Meanwhile, Comelec Acting Regional Director Wil Arce±o clarified that the ban on public fund disbursement for social services will take effect from March 28 to May 11. However, he stated it is speculative to determine whether the ordinance will impact CDWs in the upcoming elections.