President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. announced a bold vision for the future of Philippine healthcare, outlining plans to gradually reduce direct medical fees paid by patients to a minimum while significantly expanding the coverage and services offered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
Speaking at the turnover ceremony of 387 patient transport vehicles (PTVs) to local government units (LGUs) at the Quirino Grandstand in Manila, President Marcos underscored the government’s commitment to building a better healthcare system for all Filipinos.
“We are increasing PhilHealth’s insurance coverage. We are expanding and increasing the services PhilHealth provides,” President Marcos stated. “We are lowering the fees, because even now, patients still have a contribution when they seek medical attention or treatment. And we will gradually reduce that patient contribution.”
The President expressed his ultimate commitment, which was met with loud applause from the audience: “Once we have properly fixed our economy and we are capable, and I believe we will be, there will be no more patient contribution.”
President Marcos clarified that his long-term goal is for PhilHealth members to pay only a minimal amount, primarily for “administrative costs.” He acknowledged the current financial challenges, stating, “That is the aspiration. Currently, our system is not sufficient to achieve that. Of course, funds are always lacking.”
However, he reassured the public that the administration is actively working on the budget of the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth. “But we are maneuvering, we are massaging the budget well to accelerate the improvement of health services for our countrymen,” he added.
The President’s remarks signal a strong push towards universal healthcare, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on Filipino families seeking medical care and ensure more comprehensive health coverage through PhilHealth. The initiative is part of the administration’s broader efforts to enhance public services and the nation’s overall well-being.
