MANILA, Philippines — Bulacan 6th District Rep. Salvador Pleyto has filed a proposal seeking to increase the monthly hazard pay of public prosecutors under the Department of Justice (DOJ) by P5,000, citing the daily risks and heavy workload they face.

“Napakabigat ng responsibilidad ng ating mga piskal para sa bayan. Mahahabang oras ang kanilang ginugugol, may banta sa kanilang kaligtasan, at araw-araw silang humaharap sa masalimuot at sensitibong mga kaso,” Pleyto said in a statement.

“Ang dagdag na P5,000 ay maliit ngunit konkretong pagkilala sa kanilang sakripisyo,” he added.

Pleyto, a member of the House Committee on Appropriations, said the proposal aims to boost the morale and well-being of prosecutors, especially those handling cases involving illegal drugs, corruption, and criminal syndicates.

“Buong puso kong pangungunahan ang panukalang ito hanggang ito’y maisama sa pambansang badyet bilang batas, para sa 2026 at sa bawat taon pagkatapos nito. Isa itong maliit ngunit makabuluhang hakbang upang kilalanin ang sakripisyo ng ating mga pampublikong piskal at makatulong sa kanilang mga pamilya,” he said.

Pleyto also plans to coordinate with the office of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla and fellow lawmakers to explore ways to implement the proposal.

In future budget hearings, Pleyto said he would also push for additional benefits for prosecutors, such as expanded health insurance, life and disability coverage, and access to mental health services, including counseling.

The proposal is expected to be taken up during deliberations for the 2026 General Appropriations Act.