The City Council, during last Monday’s regular session, approved on third and final reading a proposed ordinance institutionalizing the celebration of Health Workers Day every May 7 in the city.
Under the proposed ordinance, it is a declared policy of the State enshrined in the 1987 Philippine Constitution that it shall protect and promote the rights of the people and instill health consciousness among them.
As adopted in the pertinent provisions of Republic Act (RA) 10069, May 7 of every year has been declared as a special working holiday to be known as Health Workers Day in the city to give due recognition to the important role and contributions of the health workers who provide vital health services to the people.
Among the objectives of the ordinance include to provide a venue for health workers to participate in the city-related activities for the celebration of National Health Workers Day; encourage the conduct of health worker-related activities relevant to their profession, rights and welfare; encourage health institutions and organizations to conduct activities that will recognize the importance of health workers in the community and conduct any other activities that would help in their professional development inside and outside the hospitals, offices and institutions, both public or private.
The ordinance outlined the suggested major activities designed to commemorate the Health Workers Day upon proper coordination with the City Health Services Office that include ecumenical prayer for health workers; education and information drive on the rights, welfare and benefits of health workers; services for wellness; health summit, discussions or other forums; activities initiated by the health workers and adopted by the council; any other related activities that would help in their professional development inside and outside the hospitals, clinics, offices and institutions; fun run and other advocacy programs or activities.
The ordinance stipulated that the local government recognizes the significant role of the health workers who render their services and resources to address the health needs of individuals and the community, particularly the underserved.
To honor the critical role of the local health workers in providing quality health care services, Resolution No. 26, series of 2023 was unanimously passed by the body declaring May 7, 2023 as Health Workers Day in the city pursuant to RA 10069. The day was observed with activities, advocacies and services that marked the event as a special day of appreciation for all their dedicated services poured out to the country.
To recognize their dedication in delivering unselfish service to the Filipinos, the council asserted the immediate passage of the Baguio Health Workers’ Day ordinance was sought. By Dexter A. See
