On February 13, 2025, PhilHealth San Fernando signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Roman Catholic Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga for the registration of 163 priests under Group Enrollment Program at the Arzobispado de Pampanga.
Most Rev. Florentino Lavarias D.D., Archbishop of San Fernando and PhilHealth Acting Vice President Henry V. Almanon led the ceremonial signing activity. It started with a heartfelt simple prayer led by Rev. Fr. Joel L. Mutuc followed by welcome address from Ma. Elizabeth B. Capuli- Head of PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) San Fernando. She mentioned that PhilHealth Konsulta Caravan will be scheduled on a separate day to orient all priests regarding Konsulta and other new benefit packages.
AVP Almanon shared the PhilHealth’s vision: “Bawat Filipino Miyembro, Bawat Miyembro Protektado, Kalusugan ng lahat segurado and its mission: “Benepisyong Pangkalusugang Sapat at De-kalidad para sa Lahat”. He briefly mentioned the new Benefit Packages released last quarter of 2024, such as outpatient hemodialysis benefit coverage increased by 144%, now ₱6,350 per session for 156 sessions annually; treatment for ischemic heart disease (acute myocardial infarction) now covers up to ₱523,850; preventive oral health services; and maternity care packages for pregnant women. He also highlighted the importance of the PhilHealth Konsulta, a primary health care benefit package (e.g. check-up, laboratory test, and maintenance medicines) to prevent any severe illness in the future. prevention
Archbishop Lavarias appreciated the efforts of PhilHealth employees in providing information education campaign to increase the awareness on the programs and services of PhilHealth. He stated that PhilHealth is indeed a partner in times of sickness. He shared that:
“Illnesses stem not only from COVID-19 and germs but also from people’s mindset and beliefs. The positive outlook or positive thoughts gives positive effect on one’s health. Culture is developed by deform. We need culture change. We raise our culture to the level of the awareness once we become aware and then we decide to change or not. Availment of PhilHealth Benefits are accessible to all members but we need to dig deeper on how we can change our attitude so we can share this in the changing culture of PhilHealth people. Archdiocese of Pampanga stand together with PhilHealth Region III on the advocacy of culture change.”
Mr. Dexter S. Maglalang, Head of Membership Section Branch A read the congratulatory message of Dr. Rowena S. Zabat-San Mateo, Acting Branch A Manager, to Archdiocese of Pampanga for ensuring the health coverage of priests and clergies in the province. (end)
