PGH receives P1.8-B in added funds for health services and Zero Balance Billing program

Abi Sarabia M., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 20, 2026

Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency

The Department of Budget and Management has released P1.855 billion in additional funding for the Philippine General Hospital, including P800 million for the government’s Zero Balance Billing program.

The DBM said P1.040 billion of the total amount will support medical services at PGH, while P800 million will go to the Universal Health Care Fund for Zero Balance Billing.

The Zero Balance Billing program aims to reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket hospital expenses for eligible patients in line with the Universal Health Care Act.

Another P15 million will be used for the treatment of Dystonia-Parkinsonism, also known as Lubag Syndrome, to support patients who need specialized treatment and related medical services.

PGH serves as the national university hospital and a major referral center for patients from across the country, including those with complex and specialized medical cases.

“Government must help make sure that needing medical care does not become a financial crisis for Filipino families,” Budget Secretary Kim Robert de Leon said.

De Leon said the additional funding is intended to provide more resources for treatment and reduce the financial burden on patients and their families.

“Every peso we release for health must ultimately reach the patient,” he said.

The DBM said the funding release is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to prioritize health care and other essential public services despite limited government resources.

The agency added that the release was made in accordance with existing budget rules and requirements.