PBBM: PhilHealth maternity benefits' major upgrade starts today

MANILA, April 30 ------ President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday announced a sweeping expansion of the maternity benefits provided by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) starting today, aimed at easing the financial burden on expectant mothers.

In a video message, Marcos announced that coverage for normal hospital deliveries will increase to PHP29,000—nearly triple the previous PHP9,750—while benefits for cesarean sections will rise from PHP37,000 to between PHP58,000 and PHP62,000. “Sa maraming pagkakataon, kung sa ward manganganak kahit sa private hospital, maaaring wala nang babayaran paglabas,” Marcos said.

The President also said prenatal care coverage has been expanded from four to eight checkups, now including vaccines and laboratory tests. Postnatal care has likewise been improved, with three follow-up visits now covered. “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,” he added.

Source: pna.gov.ph