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Health Advocates Alarmed by P60B PhilHealth Fund Transfer - Pinas Times

Health Advocates Alarmed by P60B PhilHealth Fund Transfer

On Monday, several health advocates strongly criticized the transfer of P60 billion in funds from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to the national treasury, calling it a “murder” of Universal Healthcare in the country. These advocates argue that this move could harm millions of Filipinos who rely on PhilHealth for medical services.

During a press conference, former Undersecretary for Population and Development, Dr. Juan Antonio Perez III, expressed his concern, saying the transfer was completely unjustified. He pointed out that this could especially affect people who are indirect members of PhilHealth and depend on its services for their healthcare needs. He said, “The murder of universal healthcare is happening before the eyes of the Filipino people.”

Perez also highlighted PhilHealth’s current financial situation, noting that the agency already has a “negative equity” of P1.163 trillion in liabilities. He added that PhilHealth has a huge deficit of P664 billion, making it the second-highest among government-owned corporations. He argued that even if there is money left in PhilHealth, it will not be enough to cover the healthcare needs of Filipinos, especially with new projects like e-Konsulta, which needs around P190 billion. He stressed that the goal should be to have enough money to meet every Filipino’s health needs, including consultations, hospital care, and other services.

In October, the Supreme Court issued a temporary order to stop the transfer of more PhilHealth funds to the treasury. As of now, PhilHealth has already transferred P60 billion, leaving only P29.9 billion in the agency. An additional P89.9 billion is expected to be transferred gradually.

Meanwhile, Dr. Antonio Dans, a professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, called on political leaders not to endanger Universal Healthcare. He said, “Let’s not make the people’s health a debt of gratitude. Let’s keep healthcare a human right.” Many people are upset because politicians promised to push for Universal Healthcare but now seem to be putting it at risk. Dr. Dans urged them to truly fight for health as a right for every Filipino.

The Supreme Court has scheduled oral arguments on February 4 to discuss the petitions seeking to block the transfer of the P60 billion PhilHealth funds. These petitions were filed by Senator Koko Pimentel, the Philippine Medical Association, and former Finance Undersecretary Cielo Magno.

In response, the Department of Health (DOH) argued that PhilHealth still has enough funds to pay for the health benefits of Filipinos this year. Health Secretary Ted Herbosa explained that PhilHealth has already been working with a P284 billion budget since January 1, 2025, which includes a 10% increase in benefits compared to last year. This budget covers essential services for many health conditions, including pneumonia, hypertension, and animal bites.

While the transfer of funds has sparked major debate, the DOH insists that it will not affect PhilHealth’s ability to provide for the people who need it the most. However, health advocates continue to urge the government to ensure that Universal Healthcare is fully supported and funded to meet the growing needs of the Filipino people.

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