HB00179: AN ACT INSTITUTING THE MAGNA CARTA OF DAY CARE WORKERS AND PROVIDING FUNDS THEREFOR
This bill aims to institute the "Magna Carta of Day Care Workers," providing them with improved social and economic welfare and security of tenure. The bill recognizes the vital role of Child Development Workers, commonly known as Day Care Workers, in the formative years of children (ages zero to four), emphasizing their crucial role in character molding and personality development. It mandates the creation of plantilla positions for Day Care Worker I (Salary Grade 6) and Day Care Worker II (Salary Grade 8) in all day care centers nationwide, ensuring they are appointed under permanent status and protected by Civil Service rules.
This bill is highly significant as it addresses the long-standing issue of Day Care Workers not enjoying the benefits of regular employees, despite their critical contributions to early childhood care and development. By granting them security of tenure, additional compensation like overtime and hazard pay, and other benefits such as free legal and medical services, GSIS, Pag-IBIG, and PhilHealth membership, the bill aims to professionalize the role and acknowledge their dedication. This would enhance the quality of pre-school education and social development services for children by ensuring a stable and motivated workforce.