On July 28, 2025, following President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s 4th State of the Nation Address (SONA), heads of government agencies convened at the Makabagong San Juan National Government Center in San Juan City. This two-day event was designed to offer a more comprehensive and in-depth discussion of the Administration’s accomplishments, building on the President’s address.
As one of the crucial agencies ensuring the nation’s health security, PhilHealth actively participated in the third and final cluster on the first day, joining the Department of Health, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, and Department of Social Welfare and Development.
PhilHealth Spokesperson and Senior Vice President for Health Finance Policy Sector Dr. Israel Francis A. Pargas thoroughly discussed PhilHealth’s revitalized primary care benefit package, Yaman ng Kalusugan Program or PhilHealth YAKAP. This program stands as a tangible representation of the President’s vision for ensuring every Filipino’s health and well-being.
PhilHealth YAKAP offers an expanded package of accessible health services, including medicines, check-ups and basic laboratory tests. In the coming weeks, members will see even greater benefits, six critical cancer screening tests will be activated, alongside access to 54 additional medicines under the strengthened PhilHealth GAMOT (Guaranteed Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment) will be made available. This significantly widens the scope of care available to members.
As the Marcos Administration enters its 4th year under the banner of “Bagong Pilipinas,” Filipinos can expect continued programs to build a nation where lives are better, healthier, and truly secured.
Dr. Pargas concluded the forum on an inspiring note, emphasizing a powerful vision for healthcare in the nation: “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, mayroon tayong Mabilis, Patas at Mapagkakatiwalaang PhilHealth”.
