Photo credit: Senator Bong Go

Senator Bong Go, who chairs the Senate Committee on Health, is demanding answers regarding the recent transfer of approximately P90 billion from PhilHealth to the national treasury. This move, which involves unused government subsidies meant for PhilHealth, has raised several questions about its legality and appropriateness.

Go, deeply concerned about the welfare of every Filipino, is pushing for a clear explanation from PhilHealth, the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), the Department of Finance (DOF), and the Department of Health (DOH). His key questions are straightforward: Is the transfer by DOF and PhilHealth legal and justified? If so, what are the intended uses for these funds?

The senator is particularly troubled by the existence of such a large sum of excess funds in PhilHealth. He argues that these resources should have been used to enhance and expand benefit packages to better serve Filipinos. It's unacceptable, he says, that this money sat idle while many patients still struggle to afford medical care.

As the funds are returned to the national treasury, Sen. Go emphasizes that they must not go to waste. He insists that they should benefit the public, especially those in need. The funds should support patient care, improve health facilities, and settle debts owed to health workers. They should also be used for the proper implementation of the Universal Health Care Law and the Malasakit Centers Law, ensuring that every Filipino receives the medical assistance they need.

Recalling the challenges faced during the pandemic, Sen. Go points out the ongoing issues in our healthcare system, including inadequate equipment, poorly maintained facilities, and unpaid health workers. Many patients continue to plead for medical aid.

“This is taxpayers’ money originally meant for healthcare. We must ensure that every peso helps save lives,” he asserts. “Remember, health is equivalent to the life of every Filipino!”