Philippines senator backs bill to ensure workers’ health insurance

Philippines senator Risa Hontiveros has renewed her push for the passage of a bill that would ensure that private and public sector workers would be able to access their life and health insurance benefits, crucial amid the increasing number of COVID-19 cases in the country.

“Our workers deserve better working conditions, full coverage and protection against today’s risks especially that their workplaces are fast becoming ‘hotspots’,” Hontiveros said in a statement, reports Manila Bulletin.

The senator’s call came after Quezon City’s local government confirmed that the rise in COVID-19 cases was also stemming from the workplace. 

Hontiveros said that it was imperative that safety nets be arranged for workers as they expose themselves to a higher risk of infection in the workplace.

READ: Private sector workers should receive free vaccinations in the Philippines

Once the measure is enacted, workers would be provided flexible sick leave, on top of their existing 15-day statutory medical leave. This would apply for workers who have been infected at work, or if they have to go on leave to comply with government guidelines. 

“I’m very hopeful that the Senate committee would be able to deliberate the measure immediately. Ordinary workers need to be protected especially during this time of the pandemic,” Hontiveros said.