Manila: The House of Representatives under the leadership of Speaker Faustino Dy III has launched the 'Alagang Kongreso,' a three-part institutional care program that brings together continuing assistance for retirees, a centralized desk for public requests, and a new executive check-up package for the House workforce, with particular emphasis on the health benefits now being made available across the institution.
According to Philippines News Agency, the program was rolled out with the launch of Dakilang Yugto for retired Secretariat personnel, followed by the opening of the Suporta sa Bayan Desk at the North Gate Screening Facility, and ending with the formal presentation of the HRep Executive Check-Up Program at the People's Center Cathedral. House officials also signed the memorandum circular and the memorandum of agreement with partner hospitals during the event.
House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander 'Sandro' Marcos of Ilocos Norte highlighted the initiative as a practical embodiment of the idea that public service functions best when the people within an institution, from its retirees to its current workforce, are well-cared for. He expressed gratitude to Speaker Bojie Dy for initiating the programs, which reflect his concern for House personnel and retirees.
The initial segment of the program, Dakilang Yugto, acknowledges retired Secretariat personnel and offers wellness sessions, learning activities, community events, assistance services, and livelihood or skills-building opportunities. A dedicated microsite serves as a hub for retirees to receive updates, access programs, and stay connected with the House community.
The second segment, Suporta sa Bayan Desk, serves as a central access point for requests channeled through elected representatives and partner offices. It coordinates requests involving medical, financial, social, and emergency support, aiming to make assistance more orderly, transparent, and easier to track.
The third and final segment focuses on health and wellness with the HRep Executive Check-Up Program, providing House members, Secretariat officials, employees, and other personnel access to comprehensive executive medical examinations through partner hospitals. The program emphasizes preventive care, early detection, and proactive health management.
The health package delineates benefit ceilings based on category: House members and Executive Committee members are entitled to coverage of up to PHP75,000, Secretariat officials up to PHP60,000, and Secretariat employees, coterminous Secretariat personnel, congressional staff, and contractual personnel up to PHP30,000. The program offers two ways of availing the health package: reimbursement or direct payment through accredited partner hospitals.
House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil stated that the health component addresses a common issue in public institutions, where cost, time, or inconvenience often delay check-ups. The health package facilitates preventive care and immediate access to check-ups.
Marcos emphasized that the three parts of Alagang Kongreso showcase a House leadership committed to building a culture of care that extends from retirement to workforce wellness and timely public support, under the guidance of Speaker Bojie Dy.
