GAWA Secretary-General Wennie Sancho condemns in the strongest possible terms, the Senate decision to withhold funding for PhilHealth because it would bring irreparable damage unparalleled in scope and magnitude.
This will wreak havoc on the lives of millions of health care beneficiaries, Sancho said in a press statement.
It will deliver a devastating blow to millions of Filipino workers and their families. As of 2022 PhilHealth covers over 100 million Filipinos. About 70 percent of Filipinos rely on PhilHealth for their healthcare. Thus, the Senate decision jeopardizes the country’s healthcare system, leaving the vulnerable population at risk, he said.
The Filipino workers will experience burden and suffering due to their lack of access to essential healthcare services. Millions of workers and their dependents will be denied medical assistance exacerbating health conditions and mortality rates, Sancho said.
Financial catastrophe would force patients to shoulder astronomical medical bills plunging families into debt and poverty.
Disadvantaged communities, the elderly and those with pre-existing conditions will be disproportionately affected. There will be a reduced economic productivity, sick workers would be unable to receive treatment leading to decreased workforce productivity impacting business and economy, he said.
Insufficient healthcare funding will undermine the country’s ability to respond to public health emergencies and pandemic, he added.
This is a call to action for GAWA, Senators must reassess their position and restore funding for PhilHealth. Citizens must voice out their concerns through petitions, workers must launch concerted actions and rallies. The executive branch of the government should explore alternative funding sources before it would be too late, Sancho said.
The decision of the Senate is anti-people. It is an added form of injustice to the poor and toiling masses. They should dismiss the PhilHealth officials involved in the misuse of funds. Why punish the people? Sancho’s statement asked.*
