PhilHealth cancels P37.5M anniversary spending plan

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Board of Directors canceled a proposed P37.5-million spending plan for the agency's 30th anniversary on Wednesday, citing financial responsibility.

Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who chairs the PhilHealth board, said the decision was made to save government funds and allocate them properly for the benefit of PhilHealth members.

The proposal reached the board only on Monday and was immediately vetoed after being reviewed by the board.

PhilHealth denied allegations that it allocated P138 million for a Christmas party, stating that the funds were intended for its anniversary celebration.

Dr. Tony Leachon had posted a list of supposed Christmas party activities and expenditures on Facebook, accusing PhilHealth's leadership of mismanagement.

The PHP37.5 million was proposed to cover various collaterals such as umbrellas, perforated mesh stickers, tote bags, shirts, jackets, katsa bags, and button pins.

Herbosa urged the state insurer to practice financial responsibility, emphasizing that the Board prioritizes benefits for PhilHealth members.