This is to clarify Dr. Tony Leachon’s post on his social media account maliciously accusing PhilHealth of excessive budget for its Christmas party. It is unfortunate that he is misinformed.
We wish to clarify that PhilHealth is fully complying with the directive of Malacañang to scale down agency celebrations for the Christmas season. The PhilHealth Management issued Management Advisory No. 2024-003 dated November 25, 2024 entitled “A Call for Scaled-Down Christmas Celebrations,” which ordered all offices including regional offices to observe austerity measures in the conduct of such activities. The Committee has ordered the cancellation of some activities and the donation of savings generated to communities severely affected by the recent typhoons.
The breakdown of expenses posted by Dr. Leachon, which is not yet final, is intended for the 30th anniversary celebration of PhilHealth in 2025, a milestone year. Anchored on the theme “Panatag Kami Dito!”, these activities are also in line with the observance of the National Health Insurance Month per Proclamation 1400. These activities are year-round and nationwide in scope and will be participated in by the employees, stakeholders, champions and advocates, and more importantly our members.
The approved activities are reasonable, budgeted following existing limits set by the Government, and will be procured under RA 9184. These activities aim to mount a meaningful observance of this milestone year, and will be leveraged to further engage our members and stakeholders to drum up interest and awareness on the many reforms that the Corporation is pursuing especially on the enhancement of the benefit packages as envisioned in the Universal Health Care law.
May we remind Dr. Leachon to be more responsible and cautious before releasing any statements that may mislead the public.
PhilHealth assures the public that it is committed to transparency and prudence in the stewardship of the members’ fund.
