Northern samar: The Northern Samar provincial government has approved an increase in the incentives of accredited and registered Barangay Health Workers (BHWs), reinforcing its commitment to strengthening community-based health services.
According to Philippines News Agency, under Sangguniang Panlalawigan (Provincial Board) Ordinance No. 4, Series of 2026, which amends Ordinance No. 6, Series of 2021, the annual incentive for accredited BHWs was raised to PHP8,400 or PHP700 per month from the previous PHP500 monthly rate.
The increase will take effect upon the ordinance's enactment and will not apply to services rendered in previous years, the provincial government announced on Wednesday.
Governor Harris Ongchuan said the measure is part of the administration's priority agenda to further strengthen the local health system and improve access to basic health services.
The ordinance was sponsored by Board Member Gina Silvano and co-sponsored by Board Member Don Abalon, with full backing from the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Ongchuan announced the approved increase, underscoring the provincial government's continued efforts to strengthen barangay health workers and improve the delivery of primary healthcare services to communities. 'Provincial officials recognized BHWs as frontliners in grassroots healthcare, playing a vital role in disease prevention, health education and promotion, monitoring of patients, and provision of basic emergency care at the barangay level,' Ongchuan stated.
The provincial government said the incentive adjustment aims to recognize the dedication of BHWs and further motivate them to deliver essential health services to residents across the province. The province has more than 500 BHWs serving in rural communities.
BHWs serve as volunteer community-based health frontline workers tasked with providing primary care, health education, and advocacy to residents. Among the BHWs' key duties are conducting household health surveys, assisting with maternal and child care, promoting sanitation, tracking diseases, and serving as a bridge between villagers and health centers.
