Recto Calls for Enhanced Healthcare Benefits for Middle-Income Filipinos
In a significant move to strengthen the nation's healthcare system, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto convened a high-level meeting with key health officials to push for comprehensive reforms. The discussion centered on expanding benefit packages and improving access to medical services for all Filipinos, with a particular focus on middle-income contributors.
Meeting Focuses on System-Wide Healthcare Improvements
Executive Secretary Recto met with Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) President and CEO Edwin Mercado on January 20, 2026. The gathering was specifically organized to address system-wide reforms aimed at enhancing healthcare affordability and accessibility across the country.
During the productive session, Recto emphasized the urgent need to expand benefit packages offered by both agencies. He specifically highlighted the importance of providing enhanced coverage for middle-class Filipinos who consistently fulfill their financial obligations through tax payments and regular PhilHealth premium contributions.
Addressing Implementation Gaps in Healthcare Policies
The meeting delved into critical aspects of healthcare implementation, including the strengthening of zero balance billing policies. This important initiative is designed to completely eliminate out-of-pocket expenses for indigent patients receiving treatment in DOH hospitals. Officials discussed practical strategies to address existing gaps that continue to create financial burdens for families despite current coverage arrangements.
The Department of Health provided updates on its ongoing Healthcare Provider Network model, which is currently in its final stages of completion. This innovative framework aims to better support local government units (LGUs) in delivering higher-level medical care while simultaneously improving referral systems under the Universal Health Care law.
Coordinated Approach for Tangible Patient Benefits
Executive Secretary Recto stressed that closer coordination among national agencies and local government units represents the fundamental key to ensuring that healthcare financing reforms translate into tangible relief for patients across all income groups. He reiterated that systemic improvements must ultimately benefit the Filipino people directly through enhanced service delivery and reduced financial burdens.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to advancing healthcare reforms that prioritize the needs of middle-income contributors while maintaining support for indigent populations. This collaborative approach between the Executive Secretary's office, DOH, and PhilHealth signals a renewed focus on creating a more equitable and accessible healthcare system for all Filipinos.
