Sen. Jinggoy Estrada is pushing for the passage of a law that will grant barangay tanods (village watchmen) a monthly hazard pay of P1,000, as token for ensuring peace and order in their respective communities.
He filed Senate Bill No. 794, which proposes the grant hazard pay to all duly appointed members of barangay tanod brigades, lamenting the little compensation they receive from the local government.
“The role that barangay tanods play in ensuring peace and order in the villages cannot be measured. They spend sleepless nights and act as front liners just like how they performed during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said.
READ: Jinggoy Estrada: Bill raising military veterans’ disability pension now a law
Estrada, a former mayor of the City of San Juan, noted that while tanods receive the same benefits as other barangay officials, they are given a measly honoraria or allowances amounting to at least P600 monthly.
“Barangay tanod brigades are community workers that need protection. As front liners, they should receive adequate support and treatment from the government,” he said.