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Thousands of casual and contractual government workers may soon get a long-overdue boost in job security if a new bill filed in the Senate becomes law.

Senator Christopher “Bong” Go has introduced Senate Bill No. 1786, also known as the Civil Service Eligibility for Casual and Contractual Employees Act of 2026, as part of his priority measures filed on February 9. The proposed legislation aims to grant civil service eligibility to government employees who have rendered the required length of continuous and satisfactory service — a move that could finally open the door to more stability and benefits for them.

“Hindi natin dapat pabayaan ang ating mga manggagawa na walang kasiguruhan sa kanilang kinabukasan,” Go said, emphasizing that workers deserve security and proper benefits in exchange for their sacrifice and service to the public.

For years, casual and contractual employees have served as what Go described as the “silent backbone” of government offices. They handle essential tasks that keep agencies running smoothly, yet many remain stuck in uncertain employment arrangements — often without long-term security, full benefits, or clear paths for career advancement.

The bill seeks to correct what Go considers a long-standing inequality in the system. Despite years — sometimes decades — of service, many of these workers remain outside the protective umbrella of civil service eligibility.

According to the senator, the measure is a product of listening to the concerns of different sectors. He stressed the need for laws to evolve alongside the realities faced by Filipino workers today.

But this is not Go’s first move in pushing labor-related reforms.

He also cited Senate Bill No. 177, or the Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP), which seeks to provide temporary jobs to individuals affected by economic crises, displacement, or seasonal unemployment, particularly in rural communities.

During an October 1, 2025 budget hearing, Go also raised concerns about the Human Resources for Health deployment program. He highlighted the long-running appeal of contractual healthcare workers seeking plantilla positions, arguing that regularization would not only improve job security but also help retain health professionals in the country.

At the time, he proposed possible budget amendments to strengthen the program, including the potential conversion of contractual positions into plantilla posts.

Through these measures, Go reiterated his commitment to pushing policies that protect workers’ rights, strengthen public institutions, and make government service more inclusive.

“We aim to continue to pass legislation that will address the weaknesses and gaps of our system,” he said. “Patuloy nating tututukan at ipaglaban ang pangangalaga sa ating kapwa Pilipino.”

If passed, the bill could mark a significant shift for thousands of government workers who have long waited for stability — turning years of temporary service into a more secure future.