MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Budget and Management said that the news circulating online that over 30 million Filipinos are at the brink of losing their coverage under the PhilHealth coverage is not true.
Last week, a post from Medical Action Group said that the DBM reduced the number of indirect contributors to PhilHealth this year.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman said that the post is “false, misleading, and malicious.”
“Under the Universal Health Care Act, all Filipinos are entitled to health insurance, whether as direct or indirect contributors to PhilHealth. The government subsidizes premiums for those who can’t afford them, ensuring even the most vulnerable are covered. Claims that millions will lose their coverage are simply false, as PhilHealth is committed to fulfilling its obligations, backed by substantial funds,” Pangandaman said.
The official said that it did not “unilaterally remove” PhilHealth coverage for 30 million 4Ps members, seniors, PWDs, and their dependents saying that the department cannot reduce or cut PhilHealth coverage, as it only follows what is outlined in the approved 2024 national budget.
“It may be noted that in the FY 2024 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which the Executive (through the DBM) submitted to Congress, the PHIC has an allocation of P101.5 billion, of which P80.283 billion is for the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP), covering the annual premiums of 21,161,308 indirect contributors (exclusive of PAMANA beneficiaries),” the official said.
The Medical Action Group had earlier claimed that the DBM lacks the authority to reduce PhilHealth membership, stating that millions of Filipinos could lose their coverage. However, the DBM clarified that under the Universal Health Care Act, all Filipinos are entitled to health insurance, whether they contribute directly or indirectly to PhilHealth.
The DBM said it is now planning to file legal action against the group.
