(POLITIKO) Senator Jinggoy Estrada is set to file a measure that would grant scholarships to aspiring nurses and doctors—but would also require them to work in the Philippines for at least five years after graduation.
Estrada shared his plan with reporters Tuesday (June 27) amid concerns over the exodus of nurses for greener pastures abroad. Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa has said there is a shortage of 4,500 nurses in government hospitals.
“Kapag nakapasa na, obligahin na magtrabaho sa Pilipinas for more than 5 years. After 5 years, if they want to seek greener pasture, okay,” Estrada said about his proposed measure.
The senator said he is opposed to Herbosa’s plan to grant temporary licenses to those who failed to pass the nursing board exam.
“Hindi dapat tayo padalos-dalos. Hindi sang-ayon sa pagha-hire ng flunkers. Buhay ng tao ang nakataya tapos ipapaalaga mo sa hindi pumasa?” he said.
Estrada said the government should instead tap around 18,000 nurses who recently passed the board exam and are waiting for a job.