Senators push for higher pay, better benefits for barangay officials

Senators are advocating for increased compensation and improved benefits for barangay officials and workers, citing their significant workload and currently low monthly honorariums.

According to Senator Rodante Marcoleta, barangay captains receive an average of P8,000 per month, while barangay tanods receive P1,500, and members of the Lupon Tagapamayapa receive only P300.

Marcoleta emphasized that the current average pay for barangay captains is equivalent to a housekeeper's salary in Manila, despite their 24/7 responsibilities.

He proposed raising the pay for barangay officials to at least P13,000, aligning it with the minimum wage for private sector workers to ensure a decent standard of living.

Senator Jinggoy Estrada stressed the importance of providing dignity to barangay officials by recognizing them as frontline workers.

The Committee on Local Government discussed pending bills, including a proposed Magna Carta for Barangays, to address these concerns.