By Junex Doronio
MANILA — The House of Representatives is eyeing a one-year suspension of PhilHealth members’ monthly premium contributions, pending an inquiry to determine if the agency’s financial stability can support such a measure.
This was announced by Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez as part of the House leader’s wide-ranging remarks on the last day of the session of Congress before it goes on its Christmas season recess.
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House informed his colleagues and the nation that his chamber would conduct next year “a thorough and impartial investigation into how PhilHealth’s funds are being managed.”
“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 – the hardworking Filipino people who contribute month after month,” he said.
Romuadez explained that if the inquiry finds that existing funds are underutilized or are in excess of what is needed for current operations, the House will pursue the following recommendations:
1. If funds remain stable and are in surplus, the House will recommend a one-year suspension of premium payments for all paying members as a form of relief to millions of Filipinos already grappling with inflation and rising prices.
2. Further reduce premium contributions.
3. Further expand benefits for members until the vision of zero billing in hospitals is reached.
4. The House would ensure that Philhealth provides expanded healthcare coverage, including additional medical services, hospitalization support and better benefits for those in need.
5. For workers and employers burdened by rising costs, the House will explore reducing premiums while maintaining Philhealth’s capacity to deliver its services.
6. Ensure that Philhealth provides expanded healthcare coverage, including additional medical services, hospitalization support, and better benefits for those in need.
“Why are we doing this? Because the people deserve no less. Philhealth exists to provide security and comfort in times of medical emergencies. It should not hoard resources at the expense of its members. If we can alleviate the burden of contributions without compromising its sustainability, we will do so,” Speaker Romualdez said.
He said the Philhealth inquiry would be conducted as part of the exercise of the House of its oversight power.
“This year, we have also exercised our oversight functions with diligence and integrity. Our investigations in aid of legislation have uncovered anomalies, held officials accountable, and pushed for reforms to ensure public funds are spent wisely,” he said.
He said the House “remains vigilant in emphasizing the importance of transparency and accountability of public funds, reaffirming our commitment to safeguarding our most precious resources.”
The House leader took pride in the investigations of the Quad Comm and the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability.
“Naka-abang ang milyong Pilipino sa bawat hearing ng ating Quad Committee at Good Government Committee. Naging sumbungan ang Kongreso ng mga kababayan nating naghahanap ng katarungan at solusyon sa mga katiwalian,” he said.
He said as a result of its hearings, the four-committee panel has filed bills that would address accountability, fund use and law enforcement gaps in existing laws.
He said the Quinta Comm recently starting its hearings on rice hoarding and price manipulation.
“Layon nito na maghanap ng solusyon kung paano pababain pa ang presyo ng bigas at iba pang bilihin. The Quinta Comm seeks to address food affordability, accessibility, and safety while also examining the effects of agricultural practices on food production and food insecurity,” he added.
The House leader told his colleagues that he has suggested the formation of a task force that would run after rice hoarders and profiteers.
“Kaya naman hiniling natin sa executive department na magbuo ng mega-task force laban sa mga kartel na nagma-manipula ng presyo ng bigas at iba pang bilihin. Tutulong tayo sa mega-task force na ito sa lahat ng paraan na kaya natin. Hindi tayo titigil hangga’t hindi nabubuwag ang mga kartel na ito at mai-preso ang mga lider nila,” he stressed.
“These efforts are not just about uncovering wrongdoing; they are about restoring faith in our institutions and proving that this house of the people stands firmly on the side of transparency, accountability, and justice,” he said.
Speaker Romualdez thanked his colleagues and House personnel for the unprecedented achievements of the chamber.
“I take this moment to commend all of you…for your acts of selflessness and excellent service that exemplify the best of the House of Representatives and the country. This Christmas season, may we be renewed in our resolve to create a society rooted in hope, love, and peace,” he said.
Addressing himself to the nation, he said: “To our kababayans, I ask you to hold on to hope. The challenges we face today will not define us; our resilience, our unity, and our love for one another will.”
“Together, we will build a brighter, more prosperous, and more united nation. Muli, isang Maligayang Pasko at Manigong Bagong Taon sa inyong lahat. May the spirit of Christmas fill our hearts with peace, love, and hope,” he said.
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