MANILA — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on Wednesday rolled out significantly higher maternity benefits, a move the government says will sharply reduce — and in some cases eliminate — out-of-pocket expenses for pregnant women seeking hospital care.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced the expanded package, highlighting a near tripling of coverage for normal deliveries and increased support for cesarean procedures as part of efforts to ensure safer and more affordable childbirth for Filipino families.
Coverage for normal deliveries in hospitals has been raised to P29,000 from the previous P9,750, while benefits for cesarean sections will range from P58,000 to P62,000, up from P37,000.
“Sa maraming pagkakataon, kung sa ward manganganak kahit sa private hospital, maaaring wala nang babayaran paglabas,” Marcos said.
Beyond delivery costs, the enhanced package broadens maternal care services, granting expectant mothers up to eight prenatal checkups — double the previous limit — with added coverage for vaccines and laboratory tests.
PhilHealth will also shoulder three postnatal visits to ensure continued care for mothers after childbirth.
“Simple lamang ang ating layunin, nais nating matiyak na ang bawat ina ay makakapanganak ng ligtas at hindi nag-aalala kung saan kukuha ng pambayad,” Marcos said.
“Nais natin na walang buhay ang malalagay sa panganib dahil lamang sa kakulangan ng pera,” the Chief Executive added.
The benefit upgrade forms part of the administration’s broader push to expand healthcare access and reduce financial barriers, particularly for vulnerable sectors, while improving maternal and newborn health outcomes nationwide./PN
