In a move aimed at easing the financial burden on Filipinos, the House of Representatives is contemplating a one-year suspension of premium contributions to the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). This announcement was made by Speaker Martin Romualdez during a speech before the congressional Christmas break. The decision hinges on the findings of an ongoing investigation into PhilHealth’s financial health.
Romualdez emphasized that the suspension would be implemented if the investigation uncovers surplus funds or underutilized resources within PhilHealth. This measure is intended to provide relief to Filipinos struggling with the effects of inflation and escalating costs. He stressed that the investigation’s purpose is to find solutions rather than to assign blame, focusing on ensuring that PhilHealth’s funds are used effectively for the benefit of its members.
Additional proposals under consideration include lowering contributions while ensuring PhilHealth’s financial stability, expanding healthcare coverage to encompass more services with the goal of achieving zero billing in hospitals, and improving medical and hospitalization benefits, especially for those in need. Romualdez underscored the importance of PhilHealth’s role in providing security and comfort during medical emergencies, rather than accumulating resources at the expense of its members.
The investigation into PhilHealth is part of the House’s broader oversight responsibilities to promote transparency and accountability in government expenditure. Romualdez highlighted the House’s commitment to conducting these investigations with diligence and integrity, noting that past inquiries have revealed irregularities, held officials accountable, and driven reforms.
He praised the efforts of the Quad Committee and the Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability for their work in exposing corruption, identifying law enforcement deficiencies, and highlighting inefficiencies in government operations. Romualdez noted the significant public interest in the hearings conducted by these committees, with millions of Filipinos closely following the proceedings.
Furthermore, Romualdez mentioned the recent activities of the Quinta Committee, which is examining issues related to rice hoarding and price manipulation. The committee’s objective is to devise strategies to lower the prices of rice and other essential commodities. In response to these challenges, Romualdez called for the establishment of a mega-task force to combat rice cartels, a request he has made to the executive department.