President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has mandated a significant financial relief measure for employers and self-employed individuals by ordering the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to implement a general amnesty program.
A Year-Long Amnesty for Unpaid Premiums
In a video statement, the President directed PhilHealth to allow business owners, employers, and self-employed members to settle their unpaid contributions from 2013 to 2024. The key benefit of this amnesty is the waiver of all interest and penalty charges that would have accrued on these overdue payments. The amnesty window is set for the entire year of 2026.
Easing the Burden on Businesses and Workers
President Marcos stated that the order has a dual purpose: to encourage compliance with PhilHealth membership requirements while simultaneously alleviating the financial strain on those who fell behind on payments. He specifically acknowledged the economic difficulties that led to these arrears. "We know that the three percent paid for PhilHealth is somewhat -- felt deeply by our countrymen every month," Marcos said, recognizing the burden of the regular contribution.
Expected Impact and Goal
The administration anticipates that this groundbreaking amnesty program will benefit a substantial number of Filipinos. It is expected to assist up to 300,000 PhilHealth members who have outstanding premiums. By removing the punitive financial barriers of interest and penalties, the government aims to bring these members back into good standing, ensuring they have uninterrupted access to the national health insurance program's benefits while clearing a longstanding obligation.
