Manila: Solid North Party-list Rep. Ching Bernos and Abra lone district Rep. JB Bernos are advocating for the passage of a measure that would institutionalize the training and employment of health workers from indigenous communities. This initiative aims to ensure that these communities have access to primary healthcare.

According to Philippines News Agency, House Bill No. 6533, also known as the Tribal Health Workers (THW) bill, proposes the appointment of THWs in all tribal communities located about 10 kilometers from the barangay center. The bill stipulates that one worker would be appointed for every thirty families. Rep. Ching Bernos emphasized that these workers would serve as a link between mainstream health services and indigenous communities, providing culturally sensitive primary healthcare that incorporates both modern and indigenous knowledge.

The proposed measure outlines that the tribal chief, following the community's traditions, will appoint the THW and submit their name to the local health board. The local health board will then register the appointed THW and share the list with the Department of Health to maintain a national database.

Appointed THWs would be responsible for setting up an herbal garden for community use, supported by local government and the DENR's Community Environment and Natural Resources Office. They would receive benefits such as free PhilHealth insurance and hospitalization for work-related emergencies, free tuition in public high schools and universities for their legitimate children, ongoing training in new primary healthcare management, and free legal services as necessary.

Rep. JB Bernos expressed optimism that the employment of THWs would enable the government to implement essential interventions to enhance public health among indigenous peoples. He noted the increased susceptibility to illness among IPs due to inadequate nutrition and limited access to medical services, highlighting the role of THWs in addressing these needs for isolated communities.