Ateneo Policy Center conducts focus group discussions for study on barangay health workers in San Miguel, Bulacan

The Ateneo School of Government (ASOG) through the Ateneo Policy Center (APC) conducted seven focus group discussions (FGDs) with key stakeholders in San Miguel, Bulacan for the month of October. The APC'S Health Governance Team, led by Senior Research Fellow Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, investigated the roles and experiences of barangay health workers (BHWs) of San Miguel, Bulacan.

ASOG invited BHWs from the 49 barangays of the municipality to share their insights on their job. BHWs are considered volunteers rather than regular government employees, receiving only honoraria, which the participants have described as insufficient to support them and their families. BHWs also shared how they have heavy workloads, typically dealing with over a hundred households, exceeding the ideal ratio set by DOH of 1 BHW to 20 households.

Despite these, BHWs continue to fulfill their roles, intimating how they find it rewarding to serve the community. Several BHWs reiterated, “Mahirap pero masarap.” (Difficult but rewarding.)

The team also conducted an FGD with residents who regularly deal with BHWs. Residents expressed high regard for the volunteers, attesting to the quality and accessibility of their services. “Mabilis ang serbisyo, lalo ‘pag emergency,” shared one resident. (They provide quick services, especially during emergencies.) Acknowledging the sacrifices that come with their work, residents believed that BHWs should be justly compensated. They are also keen on providing BHWs with health coverage and legal protection.

The fieldwork concluded with a session with midwives, rural health unit health workers, and local government officials who shared their experiences with BHWs. The participants emphasized the integral role of BHWs in the health system and the need to increase their remuneration.

The series of FGDs will inform the team’s crafting of policy recommendations for the benefit of BHWs. Capacitating and improving the conditions of BHWs are part of ASOG’s endeavor to bridge health inequity and advance inclusive health.