The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has granted approval for the release of P25.16 billion to the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth), to cover the one-year health insurance premiums of around 8.4 million qualified Filipino indigents.
The Special Allotment Release Order was signed by DBM Secretary Amenah Pangandaman on May 23, 2023, solidifying the government’s commitment to providing affordable healthcare.
“The pandemic has highlighted the importance of a robust healthcare system. We are working diligently to bring this essential service closer to our fellow countrymen, especially those in greatest need,” Pangandaman said.
Indigent individuals, as determined by the Department of Social Welfare and Development, are those who lack visible means of income or whose income is inadequate to support their families.
The release of funds follows the DBM’s earlier approval on April 4, 2023, when a total of P42.93 billion was allocated to cover the one-year health insurance premiums for over 8.5 million senior citizens nationwide.
