The House of Representatives was assured by officials from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) that they have sufficient funds to finance their new benefits and the expansion of health benefit packages.
PhilHealth officials, led by president and chief executive Emmanuel Ledesma Jr., informed the House that there is no need for concern regarding funding.
Ledesma on Wednesday reassured the panel during the hearing of the House Committee on Health, chaired by Batanes Rep. Ciriaco Gato Jr.
He said PhilHealth members can avail themselves of the new and expanded health benefit packages, which are valued at around P271 billion.
PhilHealth finance officer Renato Limsiaco Jr. stated that the agency’s cash on hand stood at P492 billion as of December 31, 2024. He also noted that P203 billion is expected to be collected in 2025.
“That’s the entire picture. But the bottom line is we really have more than enough to fund your corporate budget of P280 billion. And if I remember it correctly, last hearing (you said) that you intend to spend P244 billion for benefit (packages),” Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo said.
Quezon City Rep. Ma. Victoria Co-Pilar affirmed that PhilHealth has enough funds for the new benefit packages, even without a subsidy for the year. She also mentioned that the agency has a budget of P150 billion, with an additional P21 billion in unfunded budget.
“So, may pondo. Liquid kayo. Kaya natin itong pondohan etong packages na ating binabanggit. Sana nga ma-implement na natin ito ng madali at maayos,” she said.
Ledesma expressed hope that PhilHealth will continue working with and relying on House members to achieve universal health coverage.