The House of Representatives is eyeing a potential one-year suspension of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) contributions, provided its funds are found to be stable, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez announced on Wednesday, December 18.
Romualdez emphasized in a Life! report that a “thorough and impartial investigation” into PhilHealth’s financial management will take place next year to ensure transparency and effective use of the agency’s resources. He stressed that the probe aims to benefit paying members by identifying ways to improve services and financial efficiency.
“This investigation is not about blame; it is about finding solutions. Our goal is clear: to ensure that every peso in PhilHealth’s coffers works for the benefit of its members,” Romualdez said.
If the investigation reveals a surplus or underutilized funds, Congress plans to recommend a one-year suspension of contributions, consider reducing premiums, and expand member benefits to align with the long-term goal of “zero billing” in hospitals.
“PhilHealth exists to provide security and comfort in times of medical emergencies. If we can alleviate the burden of contributions without compromising its sustainability, we will do so,” Romualdez added.
The announcement comes amid backlash over Congress’s decision to exclude PhilHealth from the 2025 budget subsidy. Lawmakers defended the move, citing PhilHealth’s substantial funds, including P281 billion in reserves and P150 billion in surplus funds as of October 2024.
The Senate, led by Sen. Grace Poe, highlighted the agency’s unused P600 billion fund as a justification for the subsidy cut. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. supported the decision, stating that PhilHealth’s current budget is sufficient.
PhilHealth President Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. assured members that the agency remains financially robust and capable of meeting medical needs despite the subsidy denial.
“The decision of the bicameral conference committee reflects its wisdom. The bicam understands PhilHealth’s capacity to continue managing the National Health Insurance Program given its surplus funds,” Ledesma said.
