Recto opposes cut in PhilHealth contributions

Finance Secretary Ralph Recto has opposed a measure to cut the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) contributions and suggested improving the benefit packages from the state health insurer instead.

- LOUISE MAUREEN SIMEON

Recto’s response came after PhilHealth president and CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. said he would convene his team and recommend a reduction in the premium and contribution rates to President Marcos.

PhilHealth and Recto have been in hot water after the latter ordered the return of the agency’s P89.9 billion in unused funds to finance projects under the unprogrammed appropriations.

“I would prefer to improve benefit packages to all members to reduce out-of-pocket costs,” Recto said in a Viber message to The STAR.

However, Recto admitted that ramping up benefit packages might take time to ensure there is no wastage and insurance fraud.

“DOH (Department of Health) and PhilHealth should review the 9,000 case rate (packages) and maybe simplify (them),” Recto said.

While Recto does not want to cut rates, he maintained that the decision is still up to PhilHealth.

Lawmakers have been questioning PhilHealth for being awash in cash and yet Filipinos are forced to pay high premiums for health insurance.