The Department of Budget and Management has committed to ensuring the prompt and transparent distribution of the restored Philippine Health Insurance Corporation subsidy under the upcoming 2026 national budget.
Substantial Funding Increase for Healthcare
DBM Officer-in-Charge Secretary Rolando Toledo confirmed on Friday that the additional funding allocation will elevate PhilHealth's total subsidy for 2026 to more than PHP113 billion. This significant increase demonstrates the administration's dedication to reinforcing universal health care coverage throughout the nation.
Toledo emphasized the department's commitment to efficient implementation, stating that once the budget receives presidential approval, they will act swiftly to ensure every peso directly benefits public service. "We will release the PhilHealth subsidy in full and strictly in accordance with all special provisions," he assured.
Budget Restoration Process
Originally, the National Health Insurance Program received an allocation of PHP53.13 billion in the 2026 National Expenditure Program. However, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed relevant government agencies to restore an additional PHP60 billion to PhilHealth in the proposed budget.
The budget official acknowledged both chambers of Congress for supporting the President's directive. The House of Representatives included the extra allocation in the General Appropriations Bill, while the Senate maintained the measure in its committee report.
Funding Source and Impact
The restoration of PHP60 billion in PhilHealth funding became feasible after the Department of Public Works and Highways' proposed budget underwent thorough examination, freeing up PHP255.5 billion for reallocation to priority social programs.
With the reinstated PHP60 billion, government support for PhilHealth will more than double, significantly enhancing the agency's ability to provide comprehensive, reliable, and inclusive health insurance services to all Filipino citizens.
Toledo expressed appreciation for the collaborative effort, noting that "This united effort demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening universal health care and ensuring every Filipino has access to reliable, affordable, and responsive health coverage."
