President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced that he has ordered PhilHealth to grant a general amnesty to companies and individuals who failed to pay contributions, providing one year to catch up on arrears. This one-time interest waiver for 2026 will benefit around 300,000 beneficiaries.
In a video statement on Thursday, January 8, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. expressed awareness of the impact of the 3% PhilHealth contribution on citizens. "I have directed PhilHealth to grant a general amnesty to the business heads, private employers, and self-employed citizens who have not paid their contributions to PhilHealth," he said.
This amnesty allows employers one year to settle missed contributions from 2013 to 2024, with a one-time interest waiver for 2026. Marcos stated it will aid approximately 300,000 beneficiaries. He also urged employers to update information and register employees under the Yaman ng Kalusugan or YAKAP program, which offers basic lab services and coverage for 75 essential medicines up to P20,000 annually.
Meanwhile, PhilHealth president and CEO Edwin Mercado noted that while benefit payments surged 76% to P289.26 billion in 2025 compared to the previous year, the state insurer still requires broader coverage and access.
