Sen. Legarda refiles bill for waste worker Magna Carta

Senator Loren Legarda has refiled a bill in the 20th Congress seeking to establish a Magna Carta for waste collection workers to standardize their working conditions.

Legarda highlighted the inherent risks and challenges faced by waste workers, including safety hazards, low wages, and lack of job security.

The proposed Magna Carta will define waste workers as either formal employees or informal waste pickers.

Under the bill, waste workers will be entitled to benefits such as GSIS and SSS coverage, hazard pay, and representation in local government Solid Waste Management Boards.

Employers will be required to provide waste workers with free annual medical examinations, personal protective equipment, and necessary vaccinations.

Furthermore, the bill mandates access to comprehensive health services through a health maintenance organization, including hospitalization and regular check-ups.