President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. advances efforts to expand access to quality health care as PhilHealth and St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City formalize a partnership through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), with the Department of Health (DOH) and Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), supporting the initiative.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., DOH Secretary Dr. Edwin M. Mercado, and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian graced the signing ceremony with PhilHealth Acting President and CEO Dr. Beverly Lorraine C. Ho and St. Luke’s Medical Center President and CEO Dr. Dennis P. Serrano.
In his key address, President Marcos Jr. underscored the critical role of public-private partnerships in expanding access to healthcare. He noted that stronger partnerships with private institutions like St. Luke’s Medical Center – Global City help ensure Filipinos have access to world-class medical care under PhilHealth’s No Co-Pay policy for basic accommodation.
“Walang pinipiling tao ang sakit. Anyone can suddenly face the medical emergency that requires immediate treatment or specialized care. This administration remains committed to making quality health care accessible and affordable to more Filipinos. Malinaw ang ating hangarin, hindi dapat maging hadlang ang kakulangan sa pera para makakuha ng kinakailangang atensiyong medikal,” President Marcos Jr. expressed.
The agreement will facilitate collaboration on key healthcare reforms, the establishment of performance-based incentive systems for healthcare providers, and the support of evidence-based policymaking and research. In addition, St. Luke’s — Global City will maintain at least ten percent (10%) of its total bed capacity as basic or ward accommodation, enabling access to the hospital’s advanced medical services with zero co-payment for eligible members and covered cases and services.
“The Universal Health Care Act guarantees every Filipino immediate eligibility and access to necessary care whenever they need it. On our end, PhilHealth will ensure that shared commitments are not just admirable but sustainable through clearer benchmarks, recognition of efficiency, and appropriate payment design as intended by the UHC Act,” said Dr. Ho.
Meanwhile Dr. Serrano stated, “We recognize the vital role that PhilHealth plays in providing financial protection and expanding access to healthcare. By working together, we can help eligible patients better understand and maximize their benefits while making their healthcare journey more seamless and responsive.”
The collaboration reflects a growing role for public-private partnerships in shaping healthcare reforms, with both institutions working toward practical solutions that strengthen the National Health Insurance Program and improve the delivery of health services.
