ANTIQUE — Governor Paolo Javier led the distribution of financial incentives to community health workers across the province, recognizing their vital role in delivering basic health services at the grassroots level, during a ceremony held on December 27, at the Binirayan Sports Complex.
“We need you. We need you para sa kada pamilyang Antiqueño,” Javier said as he emphasized the importance of community health workers in ensuring accessible healthcare for every household in the province.
A total of 1,238 Barangay Health Workers (BHWs) and 706 Barangay Nutrition Scholars (BNS) received P12,000 each.
“We need you, that’s why nangita kami kapaagi para malab-ot ang twelve thousand para kaninyo. Man-an namon gamay lang ini, pero kung may enough kita nga pondo, i-increase man naton ini,” the governor added, assuring the beneficiaries of the provincial government’s continued support.
Javier also thanked the Sangguniang Panlalawigan for identifying funding sources for the incentives, as well as Senator Loren Legarda and Antique Lone District Representative Antonio “AA” Legarda for their assistance in strengthening the province’s health services.
Lily D. Serrano, president of the Barangay Health Workers of Sebaste, expressed gratitude on behalf of her fellow health workers and appealed for additional support to help sustain their services.
In his message, Rep. Legarda highlighted the crucial role of barangay health workers and barangay nutrition scholars, particularly those assigned to far-flung and hinterland communities. He described them as the province’s front-line health workers and said efforts are being strengthened, in coordination with Senator Legarda, to further improve and expand health services in Antique.
Members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan — Zoilo Bernardo Tubianosa, Vince Piccio, Karmila Rose Dimamay, Fernando Corvera, and Mart Giric Galido — were also present during the distribution, joining provincial officials in acknowledging the dedication and service of community health workers throughout the province.
Meanwhile, on December 29, a separate incentive distribution was held at the Binirayan Gymnasium, benefiting other community workers.
A total of 660 Barangay Service Point Officers (BSPOs) and 649 Child Development Workers (CDWs) from across the province received cash incentives. Each BSPO received P12,000, while CDWs received P10,000, in recognition of their dedication and invaluable contributions to community service and child development in the Province of Antique.
The initiative underscores the provincial government’s commitment to honoring the vital role of community workers in building stronger, healthier, and more caring Antiqueño communities./PN
