Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday pledged full support for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s zero-balance billing initiative, calling it a crucial step toward universal health care.
The Department of Health reported that the policy has already benefited 298,221 patients, saving them a combined ₱26.4 billion in hospital charges. Since being highlighted in the President’s State of the Nation Address, coverage expanded from 22 to more than 80 DOH hospitals nationwide.
Romualdez described the program as the “heart” of the administration’s governance, citing its compassion and concrete results. He said the House will continue allocating resources to sustain and expand the initiative.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa said the program has increased daily admissions at DOH hospitals and brings the nation closer to universal health care under Republic Act 11223. For 2026, DOH is seeking a ₱260.2-billion budget to further expand the policy, alongside new programs offering free diagnostic tests, cancer screenings, and access to essential medicines.
