The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has approved the release of P42.93 billion to cover the one-year health insurance premiums of senior citizens nationwide, the agency said in a statement yesterday.
The DBM said close to 8.59 million enrolled senior citizens are expected to benefit from the allotment.
The Special Allotment Release Order and its corresponding Notice of Cash Allocation were approved by the budget secretary Amenah Pangandaman last April 4.
Pangandaman said, per the President’s directive, the government must ensure senior citizens have the support and resources they need to thrive.
“Our elderly will always remain vital members of our society who have spent many of their productive years not only in improving the lives of their family members but also in contributing to their communities,” Pangandaman said.
Under the 2023 General Appropriations Act, P79 billion is allocated to cover the payment of health insurance premiums of indirect contributors, including seniors.
Pursuant to Republic Act No. 10645, otherwise known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010, all senior citizens shall be covered by the National Health Insurance Program of PhilHealth.
Funds necessary to ensure the enrollment of all senior citizens not currently covered by any existing category shall be sourced from the National Health Insurance Fund of PhilHealth from proceeds of Republic Act No. 10351 or the Sin Tax Law.
