Barangay health workers (BHWs) from Metro Manila have submitted an appeal letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., urging him to prioritize the enactment of a Magna Carta during his upcoming State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 27, 2026.

The proposed Magna Carta aims to institutionalize BHW employment, offering permanent government positions and Salary Grade 1 pay instead of honoraria.This comes after the Marcos administration previously included the bill as a priority measure in 2023, but it stalled due to legislative delays.BHWs, who serve as primary healthcare providers, face heavy workloads and poor compensation despite their critical role in community health.

Myrna Gaite, a 40-year veteran BHW, highlighted the lack of recognition and benefits for volunteers, emphasizing the need for the Magna Carta to secure their rights.The Senate has already approved the bill on second reading, creating a window for its passage.President Marcos’ commitment to this issue remains a key focus for BHWs as they await his SONA address.