Marcos reassures public: PhilHealth has sufficient funds, expanding services

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. reassured the public on Friday that PhilHealth has sufficient funds and continues to provide more services despite concerns raised by some.

During a fair at the Antipolo Sports Hub, Marcos emphasized that PhilHealth's funding is secure and highlighted improvements in healthcare access through enhanced benefit packages and increased insurance payments.

The President pointed out that since last year, instead of reducing services or decreasing insurance payments, PhilHealth has actually expanded its offerings and raised contributions.

Marcos also assured workers that his administration recognizes the importance of PhilHealth to Filipinos, especially for those who cannot afford medical expenses without it.

PhilHealth aims for 18 percent hospital cost coverage by 2025 and 28 percent by 2028, with additional health benefits launched this year including expanded coverage for heart disease, dialysis, kidney transplants, preventive oral care, emergency outpatient services, and adjusted case rates packages.

The state insurer's funds were a subject of recent Supreme Court arguments over the transfer of excess funds back to the national treasury, with Associate Justice Alfredo Benjamin Caguioa questioning Congress’s discretion in determining PhilHealth appropriations.