Measure on add’l benefits for brgy execs, workers nears realization

CEBU, Philippines - House Bill 1336 (Barangay Incentives Act) proposed by Cebu first district Representative Gerald Anthony Gullas Jr. is a step closer to becoming a national law after it was referred to and discussed by the House Committee of Local Government.

Gullas, who is also the House assistant majority leader, said the committee headed by Representative Pedro Acharon has already tackled the measure.

The bill seeks to give additional incentives to elected barangay officials and the secretary, treasurer, tanods, Lupong Tagapamayapa , members, and other barangay employees.

The bill also seeks to include the barangay officials in Government Service Insurance System and state health insurance coverage aside from free legal assistance and representation.

Other benefits include the tax exemption of their salaries, wages, and other emoluments such as honoraria and allowances.

“Barangay officials are, at most, public officials. They must not be treated differently with other public employees who enjoy the aforementioned privileges,” Gullas said in his sponsorship speech during the committee hearing.

He said barangay officials perform public functions that are necessary and indispensable.

The neophyte lawmaker said barangay officials also often end up facing administrative charges for misconduct that are sometimes baseless.

“If we will address these concerns, they (barangay officials) will be more enthusiastic in bringing to the people government services. Thus, the passage of this bill is, most likely, urgent, timely, and necessary. They are, after all, public servants,” Gullas said. (FREEMAN)