President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Tuesday said the government’s “Bayad na Bill Mo” program, or zero-balance billing policy, is running smoothly, with more Filipinos availing of free medical services in state-run hospitals.
During his visit to the East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC) in Quezon City, Marcos highlighted that the initiative ensures patients leave hospitals without out-of-pocket expenses. He also paid tribute to healthcare workers for their sacrifices and “dedication to service,” recalling his own experience as a Covid-19 survivor.
The President emphasized the need for stronger information drives so both patients and hospital staff fully understand the program. He said word of mouth is also boosting awareness, encouraging more Filipinos to seek treatment without hesitation.
Since his July State of the Nation Address, Marcos reported that over 12,000 patients have benefited from the program at the Eastern Visayas Medical Center in Tacloban City and about 2,000 at EAMC.
The program is funded through the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP), Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO), Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corp. (Pagcor), and Department of Health allocations, alongside PhilHealth benefits.