SC Justice proposes return of P60B to PhilHealth

Supreme Court Associate Justice Antonio Kho Jr. proposed the return of P60 billion from the National Treasury to PhilHealth, suggesting it could be reallocated from unprogrammed funds.

PhilHealth President and CEO Edwin Mercado stated the state insurer will abide by any high court ruling on the funds.

During oral arguments, Justice Kho also suggested an overhaul of the PhilHealth board due to alleged non-compliance with the law, which Mercado defended.

The Supreme Court previously issued a temporary restraining order in October against the further transfer of PhilHealth funds to the national treasury.

Petitions filed sought to stop the transfer of PHP89.9 billion in excess funds from PhilHealth to the national treasury.

Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro will meet with PhilHealth to address issues concerning the state insurer's excess funds and determine the legality of the transfer.