Ben Tulfo Proposes Life Insurance for Barangay Volunteers Amid Disasters
Nueva Ecija, Philippines – During his campaign events in the municipalities of Talavera and Rizal, senatorial candidate Ben “Bitag” Tulfo unveiled a proposal aimed at providing life insurance to barangay volunteers who risk their lives in service to their communities during disasters and calamities.
Addressing the Need for Protection
In his speeches on Sunday, Tulfo emphasized the dangers faced by these community volunteers. “What if you die as a volunteer frontliner during a calamity? What will happen to your family left behind? There is no life insurance for this dangerous work,” he remarked, highlighting the often-overlooked risks that these individuals undertake to assist their fellow citizens in times of need.
Tulfo’s rhetoric reflected a larger concern regarding the recognition and protection of volunteer workers. “Which of the national candidates running is promoting this for you?” he posed to the audience, raising awareness of the need for support and policies that safeguard those who so willingly help others.
In his remarks, Tulfo spoke to a diverse gathering of barangay officials, local residents, and students, all of whom were informed of the critical role that volunteers play within their communities, particularly in time of crises.
Acknowledging the Financial Strain
Tulfo pointed out the financial pressures that many barangay volunteers face, noting that while these individuals contribute significantly to disaster response efforts, they are often not compensated adequately. “Most of the volunteers in the barangay only receive an allowance, not a salary. Currently, what the barangay tanods and other volunteers receive is as high as P1,000 per month,” he explained, underscoring the need for better support systems.
He called for a reevaluation of the status of barangay volunteer workers, stressing the importance of giving dignity and importance to their contributions.
Vision for Disaster Management
Tulfo also reiterated his commitment to reviewing existing laws concerning disaster and emergency response. "If the Almighty God wills, I will prioritize visiting and reviewing the current laws pertaining to disaster and emergency response. The welfare of the volunteers is important to me because their lives are at stake,” he stated.
In addition to his proposal for life insurance, Tulfo is campaigning for the establishment of a Department of Disaster and Emergency that would specifically address disaster management. He believes that such an agency would be instrumental in enhancing immediate responses to calamities, ensuring timely distribution of relief goods, and following up with the rehabilitation of affected communities.
Conclusion
As Tulfo continues his campaign across the country, his proposals reflect a growing recognition of the efforts of barangay volunteers and the necessity to provide them with more support and recognition. The urgency of these discussions is highlighted by the increasing frequency and severity of disasters, underscoring the need for an effective framework that prioritizes the safety and welfare of those who serve selflessly in their communities.
