By Junex Doronio
MANILA – Following reports that the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) has P89.9 billion in excess funds, Agri Party-list Representative Wilbert “Manoy” Lee has filed a resolution seeking a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefit packages and coverage.
It was reported that out of the P89.9 billion in excess funds, P20 billion was transmitted to the national treasury as of July 23, with the remainder set to be released on a staggered basis.
“PhilHealth should serve as the national healthcare provider, not an investment powerhouse. It is mandated to use most of its funds to enhance the program’s benefits and reduce members’ contributions,” Lee said in an emailed statement on Sunday, August 11, 2024.
Under Lee’s House Resolution 1900, PhilHealth should increase its benefits and introduce new packages, such as essential diagnostic tests and other laboratory exams as outpatient services.
“It is in the best interest of beneficiaries and contributors of the National Health Insurance Program to increase PhilHealth’s benefits and coverage, ultimately lowering the out-of-pocket costs for Filipinos’ healthcare needs,” Lee emphasized.
(ia/mnm)