CABARROGUIS, Quirino (PIA)- - The Sanggunaiang Panlalawigan (SP) of Quirino province has approved a resolution expressing its full support to a congressional bill that seeks to provide a magna carta for government workers involved in disaster risk reduction and management.

The Provincial Board said it is high time to have a law protecting the welfare of officials and employees who are involved in disaster response operations considering the risks in their work. 

There were several bills proposed in Congress relative to the creation of a Magna Carta for disaster responders such as House Bills 3108, 4112, 4490, 5105, 5405, 5545, 5650, 6029, 6739, 7778, 8738, and 9073. 

Recently, the House Committee on Disaster Resilience approved in principle an unnumbered substitute bill for the legislative proposals of the Magna Carta for public disaster risk reduction and management workers, which the local legislators supported. 

In SP Resolution No. 29 series of 2024, the legislators stated that the proposed bills were consolidated into one to promote and improve the socio-economic, and psychological well-being as well as develop the skills and capabilities of emergency responders and volunteers.

They also expressed support for the Senate bill introduced by Senator Raffy Tulfo entitled, “An Act Providing for the Magna Carta for the Public Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Workers,” also filed in the 19th Congress.

SP Member Linda Dacmay, chairperson on Social Welfare, Rebel Returnees, Disabled and DRRM committees and the proponent of the resolution, said there had been no legislative measure undertaken to ensure the protection of workers in Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices.

She said the provision of additional allowances such as hazard, subsistence, rice, longevity, clothing, and laundry allowances are necessary considering the risks involved in their work.

“When enacted into law, it would enhance and fortify the socio-economic well-being, living and working conditions, as well as the skills and capabilities of individuals engaged in a disaster risk reduction and management profession,” Dacmay said.

The provincial legislators are hopeful that the bill will be enacted into law soon to benefit disaster responders who serve every time there are emergencies not only in their province but also in the neighboring provinces. (OTB/TCB/PIA 2)