Romualdez assures barangays welfare reforms are on the way
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has assured barangay officials that reforms improving their welfare are on the way, as Congress will continue to push for bills and laws addressing their concerns. INQUIRER PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA
MANILA, Philippines — House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez has assured barangay officials that reforms improving their welfare are on the way, as Congress will continue to push for bills and laws addressing their concerns.
Romualdez, in a message to the members of the Liga ng mga Barangay ng Pilipinas – Tacloban Chapter who are having a four-day comprehensive training in Ermita, Manila, said that the House will seek to strengthen their capacity to lead so that they can perform their duties better.
“The House of Representatives, under my leadership, is committed to giving barangay officials the dignity and support you deserve. We will not neglect you as you have not left us,” Romualdez said in a mix of English and Filipino. “We will continue pushing for laws that recognize your sacrifices, secure your future, and strengthen your capacity to lead.”
“In every crisis, in every challenge, in every moment of need, you are the first to respond. People run to you first, and you are at the frontline of solving problems. That is why ensuring your strength, security, and stability is not just a commitment — it is a duty,” he added.
Romualdez mentioned several bills that seek to empower barangay officials and improve services in communities, such as House Bill No. 11287, which seeks to extend the terms of barangay officials from just three years to six years.
Last January 28, the House approved on second reading the measure. If enacted, it will amend Republic Act No. 7160 or the Local Government Code of 1991, particularly Section 42, which limits barangay officials’ term to six years per term.
READ: House bill extending barangay execs term OKd on 2nd reading
“Why? Because real progress takes time. Ang tunay na pagbabago, hindi minamadali—pinagtitibay (True progress is not rushed, but is strengthened). This measure will allow you to execute long-term programs, reduce election disruptions, and focus on what truly matters: serving the people,” Romualdez noted.
Among the other initiatives that Romualdez said the House will support are the proposed Social Security System (SSS) Coverage for Barangay Officials, and the Magna Carta for Barangays.
The Magna Carta, Romualdez said, will institutionalize benefits while providing structured salaries to barangay officials.
“That is why we in Congress continue to fight for measures that uplift barangay officials, ensuring that you are given the resources, recognition, and respect you deserve,” he said.
“This four-day training program is not just about learning—it is about preparing, strengthening, and securing the future of our communities. Ang barangay na handa, bayan ang panalo (Barangays that are prepared equals towns that triumph),” he added.
Romualdez said training them is not only meant to boost their technical skills but to also allow the government to keep communities safe and thriving.
“Let us continue working together for a Bagong Pilipinas—where every barangay is strong, every leader is supported, and every community is thriving,” he said.
