A proposal has been filed in the House of Representatives seeking to grant Christmas bonuses, free legal assistance, and additional benefits to barangay tanods in recognition of their role in maintaining peace and order at the community level.

The measure is contained in House Bill No. 6598, authored by Representative Brian Yamsuan of Parañaque’s 2nd District, which aims to formalize support for barangay tanod, often described as “unsung first responders” who perform frontline security duties in local communities.

Under the proposal, barangay tanods would receive a Christmas bonus equivalent to half of what barangay captains receive, along with access to livelihood and development programs intended to improve their welfare and long-term financial stability.

The bill highlights the risks faced by tanods while performing their duties, including exposure to potentially dangerous situations despite limited compensation and recognition.

The proposed measure also seeks to strengthen coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP) by maximizing the role of barangay tanods as force multipliers in local peace and order operations.

It aligns with the Department of the Interior and Local Government’s (DILG) “Safer Cities” initiatives, particularly in communities near schools, aiming to enhance safety for students and residents through improved grassroots security support.