Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday announced expanded PhilHealth maternity benefits, which will take effect beginning April 30.
Upon implementation, coverage for normal deliveries will increase from ₱9,750 to ₱29,000, while coverage for caesarean section (C-section) deliveries will rise from ₱37,000 to approximately ₱58,000–₱62,000.
With this adjustment, Marcos noted that ward deliveries—even in private hospitals—might potentially result in zero out-of-pocket costs for patients.
Coverage for prenatal checkups will also increase from four to eight sessions, now including vaccinations and laboratory tests. Additionally, up to three post-delivery checkups will be covered under the expanded benefits.
“Simple lamang ang ating layunin: nais natin na matiyak na ang bawat ina ay makakapagpanganak nang ligtas at hindi nag-aalala kung saan kukuha ng pambayad,” said Marcos.
[Translation: “Our goal is simple: we want to ensure that every mother can give birth safely without worrying about where to get the money for expenses.”]
“Nais natin na walang buhay ang malalagay sa panganib dahil lamang sa kakulangan ng pera,” he added.
[Translation: “We want no life to be put at risk simply because of a lack of money.”]
