ZAMBOANGA CITY — Around 1,400 healthcare workers in Zamboanga City received their Health Emergency Allowance (HEA) totaling ₱29 million during a distribution activity spearheaded by the Department of Health (DOH) Region 9 in partnership with the City Government on Friday, October 10, at KCC Mall de Zamboanga.
The HEA forms part of the national government’s recognition of the dedication and sacrifices of medical frontliners who served at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, often putting their lives at risk to save others.
Mayor Khymer Olaso commended the healthcare workers for their “unwavering commitment and courage” in protecting the community and preventing the spread of the virus. “Your sacrifice during those difficult times will always be remembered and appreciated,” he said in his message during the event.
Engr. Domingo Lusaya, Chief Administrative Officer of the Zamboanga Peninsula Center for Health Development (CHD), expressed gratitude to the local government for its strong support and close coordination, which ensured the orderly and efficient release of the allowance.
The activity, held at the Atrium and East Wing of KCC Mall, accommodated beneficiaries in batches to maintain smooth processing and convenience.
The Health Emergency Allowance, established under Republic Act No. 11712, provides financial assistance to healthcare personnel who rendered service during the COVID-19 response and recovery period, acknowledging their crucial role in safeguarding public health.
Also present during the distribution were Bryant Labastida, Development Management Officer IV and Head of the DOH City Office; Kolby Arquiza, Training Specialist III of the Human Resource Development Unit (HRDU); and members of the DOH-9 and City Health Office technical teams.
The DOH emphasized that the release of the HEA is part of its continuing commitment to honor the service and heroism of health workers who stood at the frontlines during one of the most challenging periods in the country’s history.