MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health has urged President Rodrigo Duterte to issue an administrative order that would pave the way for the release of the meals, accommodation and transportation allowance of workers in public and private healthcare facilities. Health Secretary Francisco Duque III said the allowances would benefit some 423,000 healthcare workers who are working in hospitals while the country is under a state of calamity because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since the Bayanihan 2 law has lapsed, the health department needs authority to use the funds and distribute the allowances. "We seek your approval , Mr. President, so we can provide the allowances I mentioned to our healthcare workers," he added. Duque also recommended the giving of additional benefits to healthcare workers who received smaller amounts of meals, accommodation and transportation allowances.

Source: Philippine Star October 07, 2021 12:09 UTC