Beyond "Malasakit Centers": How PNoy Pioneered Universal Healthcare for the Poor

 

PNoy's Universal Healthcare: Seeds of Compassion Planted Long Before

Even before the rise of the "Malasakit Center" concept, the administration of former President Benigno Simeon Aquino III was quietly but profoundly laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and affordable healthcare system. Amidst the various priorities of his government, the need for every Filipino to have adequate health protection remained a key focus.

Looking back at history, the expansion of the healthcare system was a core agenda of President Aquino. Believing that health should not be a privilege of the few, he strived to establish a solid foundation for Universal Health Care (UHC) that gradually became a reality for millions of Filipinos.

One of the concrete instruments of his vision was the enactment of Republic Act No. 10606, or the National Health Insurance Act of 2013. Through this law, the government was mandated to subsidize the health premiums for the poor, provided they were recognized as such by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). Furthermore, premiums for informal settlers and those without regular income were shouldered by local government units.

The expansion of PhilHealth benefits through the Expanded Z Benefit Package was another significant contribution of the Aquino administration. This initiative allowed more Filipinos to receive free treatment for a wider range of illnesses in public hospitals, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and acute leukemia, with the list growing even further over time.

Moreover, the No Balance Billing Policy provided significant relief to the poorest of our countrymen. Under this policy, indigent PhilHealth members were no longer required to pay any remaining balance upon discharge from any public hospital. This was a testament to genuine compassion and prioritizing the welfare of those most in need.

The Aquino administration's efforts extended beyond policies. Through the Health Facilities Enhancement Program, thousands of hospitals, rural health units, and barangay health stations across the country were built, improved, and rehabilitated. The substantial budget allocation for the health sector was crucial in realizing these programs.

It is also important to mention the Sin Tax Reform Law implemented on January 1, 2013. Beyond its aim to reduce the number of smokers, this law resulted in significant tax collection from tobacco and alcohol products. Eighty-five percent of the collected taxes were allocated to the health sector, with 80% directly funding the universal healthcare system.

Upon closer examination, the foundations and systems of the Universal Health Care that many Filipinos currently benefit from have deep roots in the initiatives and laws enacted during President Aquino's term. While subsequent administrations may have introduced additional provisions or changes, it is undeniable that the fundamental framework and the very essence of providing affordable healthcare to all Filipinos began and were strengthened during his leadership.

Unfortunately, there appears to have been a form of "rebranding" where these earlier efforts did not receive adequate recognition. The existing systems, the allocated funds, and the very goal of UHC to protect every Filipino were all seeds planted and nurtured by the Aquino administration.

We must not forget history. The Universal Health Care we have today stands as a testament to the long-term vision and dedication of President Benigno Simeon Aquino III in ensuring that every Filipino, especially the poor, has the right to quality healthcare. His legacy in this sector remains a vital part of our journey towards a healthier and more progressive Philippines.

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