Moreno calls for immediate release of HEA

DURING the recent regular session of the 20th City Council, Councilor Imee Rose Moreno expressed concern over the delayed release of the Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) for healthcare and non-healthcare workers in the city.

Councilor Moreno revealed that complaints regarding the delayed HEA have been brought to her attention since mid-2024. In response, she formally sought updates by sending a letter to City Health Officer Dr. Rachel D. Dilla, inquiring about the estimated timeline for the allowance's release.

According to Moreno, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) had already announced that the necessary funds were transferred in full to the Department of Health (DOH).

“These workers served as frontliners during the pandemic. I believe it is only right that we prioritize their concerns and ensure they receive what is due to them,” said Moreno. She further explained that she had taken all necessary steps to follow up on the matter but had yet to receive substantial recent updates.

Councilor Maria Lourdes S. Gaane, chairperson of the City Council Committee on Health, Nutrition, and Health Insurance, the body that, based on the latest update, the HEA is expected to be released by January 2025.