Unions under the Alliance of Health Workers (AHW) held a noise barrage and picket to mark Health Workers’ Day on May 7. The protests were launched in Metro Manila, while a gathering was also held in Baguio City led by the Coalition of Health Workers’ Organizations in the Cordillera.

The day is observed to recognize health workers for their important role and contribution to the country.

“We pay tribute to our fellow health workers for providing health services to the Filipino people,” AHW national president Bonifacio Carmona Jr said.

Carmona said it is only right to recognize health workers as the backbone of the health system, working very long hours and sacrificing their well-being to ensure the safety and health of others. “Thank you for your selfless service, for being a beacon of hope,” Carmona Jr acknowledged.

In relation to this, AHW unions once again demanded the Marcos regime for a living wage, job security, the hiring of more health workers, timely provision of appropriate benefits, and free health services for the people.

Specifically, the AHW is pushing for the welfare of the sector by demanding a ₱33,000 entry salary for health workers in private and public hospitals. They are also calling for a ₱50,000 entry salary for nurses and other allied health professionals such as medical technologists, pharmacists, respiratory therapists, radiologic technologists, dietitians, physical therapists, and others. At present, employees categorized under Salary Grade 1 in public hospitals receive only ₱13,500 per month.

Aside from low wages, they are also burdened by the severe lack of staff in hospitals and contractualization. According to the AHW, these are major obstacles to maintaining proper services and a sound health system in the country. This dire situation has not changed and has even worsened in almost three years of Marcos in power, it said.

According to the AHW, these conditions have resulted in overworked, demoralized, and extremely exhausted workers, with many leaving their jobs or retiring early. The sector does not feel valued by the state because of low wages, unpaid benefits, lack of job security, and unsafe workplaces.

The Health Workers Party-list also expressed their greetings and recognition to health workers.