Barangay officials
DROWNED by the many problems confronting the people is news that a bill has been filed in Congress that reflects the concern over the welfare of barangay authorities and employees.
This is not surprising because these problems include the skyrocketing prices of services and goods, particularly food and other essential commodities, and the drug menace.
Pending consideration in the Lower Chamber of Congress is House Bill (HB) No. 1204, which is authored by Rep. Faustino “Inno” Dy V of the 6th Congressional District of Isabela.
The proposed piece of legislation seeks to make barangay officials regular government employees, which would entitle them to fixed salaries, insurance and retirement benefits.
Unlike regular government personnel, who work eight hours a day from Monday to Friday, barangay officials and employees work virtually 24 hours every day throughout the year.
Despite this, barangay officials and employees, who are the first responders to any concern that the community faces, only get paid a “pittance,” said Congressman Dy.
“It is high time to correct such injustice and this proposed measure would be a good way to express gratitude for the selfless service of barangay officials,” according to the solon.
We cannot overemphasize the importance of fast-tracking the passage of the bill considering the crucial role played by village authorities in the nation’s socio-economic development.
Our people, including the ordinary citizens, expect their government to do justice to everybody.
Let’s then advance the interests of our overworked and underpaid village officials by making them regular government employees and providing them all the necessary help.
