PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. on Friday, Feb. 23 said the organization had consulted Malacañang for guidance on implementing a higher contribution and had received a "no objection" response.
“We sought their guidance, informing them that we've already implemented it by law, and we're simply seeking direction on whether to proceed or suspend,” he said in a press conference.
He said Malacañang's response, following a comprehensive study on the premium contribution increase, indicated “no objection” to the scheduled hike implemented on January 1st.
“Si Sec. Ted (Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa) at si PBBM (President Bongbong Marcos), inisip lang talaga nila ‘yung welfare ng mahihirap, however, after thorough study and discussion, I think it was all agreed upon (Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa and PBBM just really thought about the welfare of the poor, however, after thorough study and discussion, I think it was all agreed upon),” he explained.
Ledesma remarked that the discussion was constructive, with all points being carefully considered.