GSIS coverage for bgy execs sought
A neophyte solon is proposing the inclusion of barangay officials – elected and appointed – in the coverage of the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).
In filing House Bill 3355, Quezon City Rep. PM Vargas said the unparalleled service of the most basic political unit in our society should be recognized.
“Barangay officials are the blood that keeps the government running, especially at the grassroots and community level. It is only right and just that government benefits, specifically in insurance as a social security tool, be extended to include our noble leaders in the barangay,” Vargas said.
Since the establishment of Barangay Election Act of 1982, barangay officials only make do of their measly compensation and limited benefits in the performance of their duties.
The bill provides additional benefits to allow barangay officials to take care of themselves and their families when the worst case scenario happens to them.
“As the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan Elections are fast-approaching, it is high time to take care of incoming barangay officials who serve as our partners in our contribution to nation-building,” he said.
The proposed coverage shall include elective barangay officials namely Punong Barangay, Sangguniang Barangay Members, and Sangguniang Kabataan Chairperson. The same benefit shall also be extended to appointees, namely barangay treasurer, barangay secretary, chief tanod and barangay admin.
The bill also mandates Local Government Units to devise lawful systems and programs allowing them to contribute or subsidize the monthly contributions to GSIS of the barangay officials.
