SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin Romualdez assured barangay officials that the House of Representatives will strongly support efforts that would strengthen their service capability and promote their welfare.

Speaker Romualdez mentioned these promises in his message last Wednesday in front of the members of the Liga ng mga Barangay ng Pilipinas- Tacloban Chapter who underwent a four-day comprehensive training program held at the Citystate Tower Hotel in Ermita, Manila.

“The House of Representatives, under my leadership, is committed to giving barangay officials the dignity and support you deserve. Hindi namin kayo pababayaan, dahil hindi niyo rin kami iniwan,” said Romualdez, who heads the 306-members of the Lower House.

“We will continue pushing for laws that recognize your sacrifices, secure your future, and strengthen your capacity to lead,” he added.

Speaker Romualdez also said that the barangay officials are the backbone of the government.

“In every crisis, in every challenge, in every moment of need, you are the first to respond. Kayo ang unang tinatakbuhan ng tao, kayo rin ang unang sumasalo sa problema. That is why ensuring your strength, security, and stability is not just a commitment—it is a duty.”

He also gave recognition to the difficult tasks performed by barangay officials including disaster response, implementing the law, financial management, and in dealing with social matters.

“That is why we in Congress continue to fight for measures that uplift barangay officials, ensuring that you are given the resources, recognition, and respect you deserve.” He added that it is unjust that they are serving others but do not receive adequate support.

He also mentioned that there are other proposed measures in Congress that aim to improve the conditions of barangay officials and to provide them the needed support:

House Bill No. 11287 – Extending the Terms of Barangay Officials to Six Years. “Why? Because real progress takes time. Ang tunay na pagbabago, hindi minamadali—pinagtitibay. This measure will allow you to execute long-term programs, reduce election disruptions, and focus on what truly matters: serving the people,” Romualdez said.

To include Barangay Officials in the Social Security System (SSS) membership. According to Speaker Romualdez, it is unacceptable that those who dedicate their lives to service have no financial support. He added that by including barangay officials in the SSS, it would make sure that they would receive life insurance, disability benefits, and lifetime pension.

Magna Carta for Barangays. Romualdez said that the proposed bill aims to make institutional the giving of benefits, sufficient salaries, and to make sure that there are enough funds for barangays so that they would be able to effectively serve their community, such as:

• Salaries and benefits similar to government employees

• Health insurance at scholarship for their dependents

• Guaranteed funds for barangay programs

All these incentives, according to Romualdez, are geared toward strengthening the barangay because “Kung matibay ang barangay, walang maiiwang Pilipino.”

Meanwhile, he also praised the Liga ng mga Barangay Tacloban Chapter for their initiative to conduct a training program.

“This four-day training program is not just about learning—it is about preparing, strengthening, and securing the future of our communities. Ang barangay na handa, bayan ang panalo,” he said.

The House Speaker also stressed that their training for disaster preparedness, responsible budgeting, and good governance is not just for technical training, but it is an important foundation in building safe and developed communities.

“Let us continue working together for a Bagong Pilipinas—where every barangay is strong, every leader is supported, and every community is thriving.”

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