In a significant leadership change at the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), newly appointed President and CEO Edwin Mercado has committed to reducing patients’ out-of-pocket medical expenses to 25 percent, a notable decrease from the current range of 45 to 47 percent. This pledge was made public in a statement released on Wednesday, where Mercado emphasized the importance of accurate data to guide future enhancements in health benefits.
Mercado, who was officially sworn into his position by President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr. on February 4 at the Malacañan Palace, expressed his dedication to fulfilling the President’s directive. He aims to ensure the continuity and expansion of services provided by PhilHealth. “We are responding to the directive of our beloved President Ferdinand ‘Bongbong’ Marcos Jr., and this is to ensure continued services and expanded benefits,” Mercado stated.
With a background as a U.S.-trained orthopedic surgeon and 35 years of experience in various aspects of healthcare management, including hospital management, strategic planning, financial management, and primary care programs, Mercado plans to prioritize the modernization of PhilHealth’s operations. His strategy includes the adoption of advanced technologies to improve member experiences, strengthen stakeholder engagement, and streamline operational processes.
The transition of leadership was marked by a formal handover ceremony on February 10 at the PhilHealth office in Pasig City, where outgoing PCEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. passed the baton to Mercado. During the event, Mercado acknowledged Ledesma’s contributions to enhancing health benefit packages during his less than two-year tenure.