Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito renewed his call Wednesday for the creation of a Joint Congressional Oversight Committee on Universal Health Care (UHC) to evaluate the implementation of the landmark UHC Act and address gaps in the country’s healthcare system.
Ejercito raised this proposal during a Senate Committee on Health and Demography hearing, where he stressed the importance of closely monitoring the progress of the UHC Act, as mandated under Section 39 of the law, to ensure its objectives are being met.
The senator underscored the role of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) as the primary agency tasked with delivering individual-based health services under the UHC framework.
“With this oversight, we can conduct an assessment of what the Universal Health Care Act is reaching,” Ejercito was quoted saying in a report published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
“I hope we can do this when the session returns next year to give our compatriots peace of mind,” he added.
The UHC Act aims to reduce out-of-pocket medical expenses for Filipinos and ensure equitable access to healthcare.
However, Ejercito noted the need to revisit case rates and benefit packages under the law, pointing out that many Filipinos continue to struggle with hospital bills despite the program’s funding.
The lawmaker also questioned why excess funds exist within the system while patients still face significant financial burdens.
“The goal of the Universal Health Care Act is to lower out-of-pocket expenses. It’s not about having savings or excess funds—it’s about ensuring our countrymen feel the impact of this law,” Ejercito said.
Senator Christopher Lawrence Go echoed Ejercito’s sentiments, adding that public awareness about the UHC Act’s implementation is equally vital. “I agree with Senator JV—we need an oversight committee,” he said.
