MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has directed the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to implement a one‑time waiver of interest on unpaid contributions as part of efforts to ease burdens on Filipino employers and self‑employed members.
Under the directive, the waiver will apply to unpaid PhilHealth premiums from July 2013 to December 2024, effectively giving a form of general amnesty on accumulated interest for those who missed payments over the years. Marcos said this measure is intended to provide relief for businesses, private employers and self‑employed workers who have struggled with contribution arrears.
Marcos also encouraged employers to register their employees under the Yaman ng Kalusugan (YAKAP) Program, which expands access to primary and outpatient care benefits through PhilHealth. He emphasized updating member information to ensure workers are covered and can avail themselves of comprehensive health services.
The president’s move is seen as part of a broader push to make healthcare more accessible and financially manageable for Filipinos, particularly for those bearing the cost of healthcare contributions amid ongoing economic concerns.