Senator Loren Legarda has filed a bill seeking to recognize and reward Filipinos who have consistently contributed to PhilHealth through the proposed PhilHealth Member Recognition Program (PMRP), a points-based system offering additional healthcare benefits.
Under the bill, members will receive points for every year of contributions, with retroactive credit for up to 10 years. These points can be redeemed for medical benefits, coverage of out-of-pocket expenses, improved accommodations, and preventive healthcare services. Loyalty bonuses will also be given to those with five, ten, or twenty years of continuous contributions.
Legarda emphasized that many PhilHealth members, from employees to small business owners, feel their long-term payments do not translate into meaningful support. The PMRP seeks to address this by ensuring contributors receive tangible benefits.
One key feature of the bill allows members to transfer earned points to family members during emergencies. It also promotes preventive healthcare by rewarding members who undergo vaccinations, annual check-ups, and screenings, aiming to reduce long-term medical costs for both PhilHealth and its members.
To enhance transparency, a digital platform will be created for members to monitor points, redeem benefits, and designate beneficiaries. The bill also includes safeguards such as redemption limits, expiration policies, and financial reviews to maintain the program’s sustainability.
Legarda stressed that ensuring financial stability is a priority, noting that PhilHealth will conduct a post-implementation review to assess the program’s viability and explore the possibility of extending benefits to indigents and sponsored members.
“This is about fairness and trust. We need to make long-time contributors feel that their payments matter and that the system values their loyalty,” Legarda said.
