Speaker Martin Romualdez (center), accompanied by Deputy Majority Leader ACT-CIS Partylist Rep. Erwin Tulfo (third from right), meets with PhilHealth officials headed by its President and CEO, Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. (third from left) on March 11 to follow up on his call for increased benefits to PhilHealth members.(Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez is taking to heart his commitment to support women even beyond Women’s Month celebration this month. 

This, as Romualdez bared in a statement Tuesday, March 12 that the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) will provide free annual mammogram and ultrasound services for Filipino women starting this July. 

Romualdez made the announcement following a meeting with PhilHealth officials headed by its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Emmanuel Ledesma Jr., before he left the country Monday to accompany President Marcos for his working visit in Berlin, Germany and state visit to the Czech Republic. 

"I commend PhilHealth for their swift action in responding to our call to provide free mammogram and ultrasound examinations to our women. This initiative reflects the commitment of the administration of President Marcos to prioritize the health and well-being of Filipino women, ensuring access to crucial preventive care,” Romualdez said. 

“This is the best news we can give to the Filipino women, especially during Women's Month,” added the leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives. 

Romualdez, along with House Deputy Majority Leader and ACT-CIS Party-list Rep. Erwin Tulfo, met with PhilHealth officials Monday to follow up on Congress' request for annual free mammograms and ultrasounds for women. 

“We will deliver, sir. We will not fail you; we need to deliver. We are really confident that we will be able to fulfill your request,” Ledesma assured the Speaker. He said the request could be achieved by July this year. 

Romualdez believes that the free mammogram and ultrasound services will have a positive impact on the health and well-being of Filipino women. 

"Early detection is key in addressing various health concerns, and by removing financial barriers to these essential services, PhilHealth is helping to save lives and promote a healthier future for our women," he pointed out. 

He says this development is in line with the personal advocacy of his wife, Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie Romualdez. 

The Speaker expressed optimism that the free services from PhilHealth would signal the start of an enhanced relationship between Congress and the agency in their shared responsibility to deliver basic healthcare services to the public. 

“As representatives of the people, we are sensitive to the needs of our constituents, we are sensitive to the needs of our people. Together, through collaborative efforts and initiatives, we can work towards achieving better health outcomes and a brighter future for all Filipinos as envisioned by President Marcos,” he said.