By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
House Speaker Martin Romualdez declared on Wednesday night (Dec. 18) that the House of Representatives is considering the possibility of imposing a year-long suspension of PhilHealth members’ monthly premium contributions, pending an inquiry to determine if the agency’s financial stability can support such a measure.
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House informed his colleagues and the nation that his chamber would conduct next year “a thorough and impartial investigation into how PhilHealth’s funds are being managed.”
“This investigation is not about blame; it is about finding solutions. Our goal is clear: to ensure that every peso in Philhealth’s coffers works for the benefit of its members—the hardworking Filipino people who contribute month after month,” the Leyte lawmaker said.
He added that if the inquiry unearths proof regarding either the underutilization of existing funds or having excess of what is needed for current operations, the House would pursue the following recommendations:
- If funds remain stable and are in surplus, the House will recommend a one-year suspension of premium payments for all paying members as a form of relief to millions of Filipinos already grappling with inflation and rising prices.
- Further reduce premium contributions.
- Further expand benefits for members until the vision of zero billing in hospitals is reached.
- The House would ensure that Philhealth provides expanded healthcare coverage, including additional medical services, hospitalization support, and better benefits for those in need.
- For workers and employers burdened by rising costs, the House will explore reducing premiums while maintaining Philhealth’s capacity to deliver its services.
“Why are we doing this? Because the people deserve no less. Philhealth exists to provide security and comfort in times of medical emergencies. It should not hoard resources at the expense of its members. If we can alleviate the burden of contributions without compromising its sustainability, we will do so,” Speaker Romualdez said, emphasizing that the PhilHealth inquiry would be conducted as part of the House’s exercise of its oversight power.
“This year, we have also exercised our oversight functions with diligence and integrity. Our investigations in aid of legislation have uncovered anomalies, held officials accountable, and pushed for reforms to ensure public funds are spent wisely,” he added further.
Romualdez lauds investigative efforts of Quad-Comm and Quinta-Comm
Meanwhile, the House leader also took pride in the investigations of the Quad-Comm and the House Committee on Good Government and Public Accountability, also known as the Blue Ribbon Committee.
“Nakaabang ang milyong Pilipino sa bawat hearing ng ating Quad Committee at Good Government Committee. Naging sumbungan ang Kongreso ng mga kababayan nating naghahanap ng katarungan at solusyon sa mga katiwalian,” he said, emphasizing the fruits of Quad-Comm’s hearings through bills filed to address accountability, fund use, and law enforcement gaps in existing laws.
Likewise, the newly minted Murang Pagkain Supercommittee, also known as Quinta-Comm, was also praised by the House Speaker for conducting hearings on rice hoarding and price manipulation.
“Layon nito na maghanap ng solusyon kung paano pababain pa ang presyo ng bigas at iba pang bilihin. The Quinta-Comm seeks to address food affordability, accessibility, and safety while also examining the effects of agricultural practices on food production and food insecurity,” the Leyte lawmaker explained.
Romualdez also told his colleagues that he has suggested the formation of a task force that would run after rice hoarders and profiteers, while simultaneously restoring public trust in government institutions.
“I take this moment to commend all of you…for your acts of selflessness and excellent service that exemplify the best of the House of Representatives and the country. This Christmas season, may we be renewed in our resolve to create a society rooted in hope, love, and peace,” the Leyte solon concluded, thanking his colleagues and House personnel for the various achievements of the chamber. (with report from Mela Lesmoras/PTV News)
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