Marcos calls on more hospitals to adopt PhilHealth no co-payment policy

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
August 24, 2026

Photo Courtesy: (Screengrab from RTVM/YT)

MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged more hospitals across the country to adopt PhilHealth’s No Co-Payment Policy, saying the move can help ensure that financial difficulties do not prevent Filipinos from receiving medical care.

Marcos made the call during the signing of a memorandum of agreement between PhilHealth and St. Luke’s Medical Center–Global City in Taguig.

“We encourage more hospitals across the country to support PhilHealth in advancing Universal Health Care by embracing the No Co-Payment Policy,” Marcos said.

“Together, let us ensure that no Filipino is denied the care that they need only because of financial hardship,” he added.

The President said the government cannot achieve its healthcare goals alone and stressed the importance of private hospitals in expanding access to medical services and easing the financial burden on patients and their families.

Marcos also cited government programs such as the Zero Balance Billing Program, the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients Program, and the expansion of PhilHealth’s YAKAP Program.

The YAKAP Program provides free consultations, laboratory tests, and cancer screening, while the government is also planning to establish more BUCAS centers for urgent and outpatient care.

Marcos said the government’s healthcare reforms should remain focused on making services more accessible and affordable, particularly for Filipinos who need assistance the most.

“It is a simple yet universal belief that we must all uphold. So, as we improve how we finance healthcare, we must make sure that our reforms remain compassionate and people-oriented,” he said.