SEN. Bong Go has filed a measure seeking to grant civil service eligibility to casual and contractual government employees. Senate Bill (SB) 1786, or the Civil Service Eligibility for Casual and Contractual Employees Act of 2026, was among Go’s priority measures filed on Feb. 9. SB 1786 would allow eligible workers to qualify for permanent positions and enjoy greater job security and benefits under civil service rules. Go said the measure recognizes the contributions of nonregular government workers who, despite years of service, remain in precarious employment arrangements. “Casual and contractual employees are the silent backbone of our government offices. They perform essential duties that keep public services running efficiently,” he said. “This bill is the result of listening to the grievances and needs of various sectors. It is important to adapt our laws to the current times and the actual situation of the people.” Go said many government workers hired on a casual or contractual basis do not automatically acquire civil service eligibility, limiting their chances for promotion and access to full employment benefits. Many long-serving employees are also vulnerable to job insecurity and without clear pathways for career advancement. Go said the bill forms part of his broader legislative agenda aimed at strengthening workers’ rights and promoting fair labor practices in government service. Go also cited SB 177, or the proposed Rural Employment Assistance Program (REAP), which he filed that seeks to provide temporary employment to individuals affected by economic hardship, displacement, seasonal unemployment, and those living in rural areas. In addition, Go raised concerns over the Human Resources for Health (HRH) deployment program, particularly the status of contractual health care workers seeking plantilla positions. He said regularizing health care workers would make the profession more attractive to Filipinos and help improve retention within the country’s health system.