Senators criticize PhilHealth for returning P90B to gov't

Senators criticized PhilHealth for returning almost P90 billion worth of excess funds to the national government during a public hearing on Tuesday, July 30, questioning both the legal and moral justification behind this move.

Senator Bong Go emphasized that health-related funds should be used to help patients and improve healthcare facilities rather than being returned to unprogrammed funds, highlighting specific areas like dialysis treatments and mental health services where these funds could make a significant difference.

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto defended the transfer as in accordance with Republic Act No. 11975 or the General Appropriations Act of 2024, emphasizing that PhilHealth remains financially stable with a substantial benefit chest fund of PhP500 billion.

PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma confirmed the existence of this reserve fund and emphasized ongoing efforts to enhance benefit packages for all Filipinos who are PhilHealth members, while Health reform advocate Dr. Anthony Leachon voiced concerns about the ethical implications of the fund transfer.

The hearing concluded with commitments from both PhilHealth and DOF to address the raised concerns, further improve Philhealth packages, and recommend reducing PhilHealth contributions from its members.