• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Sangguniang Panlungsod approved on first reading May 6 a proposed ordinance increasing to P8,000 the monthly allowance of barangay nutrition scholars (BNS) in Bacolod City.
Due to the continuing increase in the prices of basic commodities and the rising cost of living, the current allowance of P7,000 is no longer sufficient to sustain the daily needs of BNS and compensate for the essential public service they provide at the grassroots level, the proposed 2026 Amended BNS Allowance Ordinance states.
Authored by Councilor Em Ang, the proposal said there is an urgent need to grant an additional P1,000 across-the-board increase “to ensure the efficient and continuous delivery of health and nutrition services”, and in recognition of the invaluable contribution of BNS to the city’s health sector.
The amendatory ordinance, co-authored by Councilor Bobby Rojas, also states that BNS of Bacolod shall receive a monthly allowance of P8,000 starting in 2027, and P9,000 effective 2028. | CGC
