UNLIKE in 2025 when it received zero allocation from the national budget, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) expressed hope on Thursday, July 31, 2025, that it will not be the case for 2026.
Speaking at a televised public briefing, PhilHealth Vice President Dr. Israel Pargas said they are hopeful that the proposed P53.26 billion in subsidy will be approved as they will be essential in the continued improvement of their benefit packages.
"Marami pa tayong plano para palawakin ang mga benefits o maglabas ng bagong benefits so kailangan pa din natin tulong ng gobyerno," said Pargas.
(We still have many plans to expand the existing benefits or introduce new ones, so we still need the help of the government.)
"Sana tayo ay mabigyan ng premium subsidy this year sa ating General Appropriations Act," he added.
(Hopefully, we will be granted a premium subsidy this year under the General Appropriations Act.)
Pargas added that they will also rely on their paying members to continue paying their premium contributions.
"Yung mga kailangan magbayad ay sana patuloy magbayad ng premium para masigurado natin ang sustainability ng benefits," said Pargas.
(Those who are required to pay premiums, we hope they continue to do so to ensure the sustainability of the benefits.)
Still, the PhilHealth official assured that all existing benefits can be fully implemented as the state-run health insurer has adequate existing funds.
"Bago kami mag approve ng ating mga bagong benefits o pagpapalawak ng benefits, laging may kaakibat na actuarial financial impact analysis. So kung kakayanin ng pundo, inaaprubahan po ito. Since madami tayo naaprubahan, ibig sabihin kaya ng ating pondo at masusustain natin ito," said Pargas.
(Before we approve any new benefits or expand existing ones, we always conduct an actuarial financial impact analysis. If the fund can sustain it, then we approve it. Since many have been approved, it means our fund can support and sustain these benefits.)
During his fourth State of the Nation Address (Sona) on July 28, 2025, Marcos enumerated several improved and new benefit packages of PhilHealth.
They include expansion of coverage for dialysis, severe dengue, and cataract surgery, as well as the introduction of emergency care benefits. (Anton Banal/SunStar Philippines)