Senator Christopher "Bong" Go demanded swift action from the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to expedite the distribution of PHP 27 billion in health emergency allowances for healthcare workers.
Go’s appeal underscores his dedication to resolving delays in the release of these essential funds, stressing the need to honor commitments made to those who risked their lives during the pandemic.
During a recent Senate hearing, Go emphasized the critical importance of these allowances, which are intended to compensate healthcare professionals who battled on the pandemic's front lines.
He highlighted the urgency of these funds, allocated under Republic Act No. 11712, a law he co-authored and co-sponsored in the 18th Congress.
Despite the State of Public Health Emergency being lifted, Go continues to push for the release of these allowances for qualified healthcare workers.
"Sa plano ng DOH, paano niyo po i-release ang PHP 27 billion sa mga healthcare workers? At paano niyo masisiguro na walang maiiwan at walang healthcare workers natin ang hindi makakatanggap ng HEA?” Go inquired.
His question referenced statements by Department of Finance Secretary Ralph Recto, who indicated that the funds were already with the DOH and DBM, urging immediate action.
The senator highlighted the voices of healthcare workers from various regions who are persistently calling for their HEA, emphasizing the emotional weight of their plight.
Ronald Ignacio, Spokesperson for the United Private Hospital Unions of the Philippines, drew attention to the ongoing discrepancies and delays in HEA payments, noting that many healthcare facilities have been waiting for up to 18 months for their allowances.
In response, DOH Undersecretary Achilles Bravo provided an update on fund distribution, specifying amounts already released and a plan for the remaining balance.
Bravo said, "The NCA (Notice of Cash Allocation) was released to us on July 15 and we immediately sub-allotted it to our regional offices. For July, PHP 10.1 billion, PHP 9.8 billion for August, PHP 4.06 billion for September, and the balance by October, PHP 2.9 billion."
The DOH also addressed the grievance process for health workers contesting their HEA status, discussing the establishment of regional ad hoc grievance boards to handle complaints and resolve disputes about qualifications and amounts.
Go reiterated his call to the DOH and DBM to ensure no qualified healthcare worker is left behind, stressing the need for meticulous record reconciliation to guarantee that all eligible workers receive their allowances.
"This Committee will continue to fight for their cause. Para sa ating healthcare workers - I am one with you in your call for the release of your much-deserved allowances. You have this committee as an avenue to air your concerns, and we will not stop until you get what is rightfully yours in recognition of the sweat, blood, and tears you sacrificed to save lives,” Go assured.
He underscored the October deadline set by the DOH for the full distribution of the health emergency allowance, pressing for a commitment from department officials.
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