The mural’s central theme, the payong (umbrella), symbolizes the agency’s role in shielding Filipinos from the financial burdens of illness and unforeseen medical emergencies. This visual representation also affirms the Marcos administration’s commitment to ensuring accessible and equitable healthcare for all.
“This artwork is more than just a painting on the wall,” said MMDA Chairman Romando S. Artes. “It is a tribute to the power of compassion and service, and a visual reminder that health is not only a personal responsibility, but a collective mission,” he added.
PhilHealth Acting President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Edwin M. Mercado echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the organization’s role in providing financial protection and access to essential health services.
“Ito po ang kahulugan ng PhilHealth sa buhay nating lahat – napoprotektahan tayo laban sa mabigat na gastusin tuwing tayo’y nagkakasakit, at nagkakaroon tayo ng agarang access sa serbisyong medikal sa oras ng ating pangangailangan. (This is the meaning of PhilHealth in all our lives – we are protected against heavy expenses whenever we fall ill, and we gain immediate access to medical services in times of need)," he said.
“Gaya ng payong, ang PhilHealth ay laging kasama natin sa bawat hakbang ng ating buhay (Like an umbrella, PhilHealth is always with us in every step of our lives)," he added.
Highly visible to thousands of commuters each day, the mural serves as a public reminder of the shared responsibility in maintaining an inclusive and sustainable health care system—especially for the poor, marginalized, and vulnerable sectors of society.
For inquiries about PhilHealth membership and benefits, members may contact the PhilHealth hotline at (02) 866-22588 or through mobile numbers: (Smart) 0998-8572957, 0968-8654670; (Globe) 0917-1275987, 0917-1109812.