SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Roman Catholic Archbishop of San Fernando, Pampanga, formalized a partnership on February 13, 2025, through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing for the enrollment of 163 priests under PhilHealth’s Group Enrollment Program. The signing was held at the Arzobispado de Pampanga.
Leading the ceremonial signing were Most Rev. Florentino Lavarias, D.D., Archbishop of San Fernando, and PhilHealth Acting Vice President Henry V. Almanon. The event commenced with a prayer by Rev. Fr. Joel L. Mutuc, followed by a welcome message from Ma. Elizabeth B. Capuli, Head of PhilHealth Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) San Fernando. Capuli announced that a PhilHealth Konsulta Caravan would be scheduled separately to educate clergy members on Konsulta and newly introduced benefit packages.
In his address, Almanon underscored PhilHealth’s commitment to universal health care, reiterating its mission: “Benepisyong Pangkalusugang Sapat at De-kalidad para sa Lahat.” He highlighted key enhancements to PhilHealth’s benefit packages, including a 144% increase in outpatient hemodialysis coverage, expanded treatment for ischemic heart disease, and new maternity and preventive oral health benefits.
Almanon also emphasized the importance of PhilHealth Konsulta, which provides members with primary healthcare services, check-ups, laboratory tests, and maintenance medications to prevent severe illnesses.
Archbishop Lavarias lauded PhilHealth’s proactive efforts in raising awareness about its programs. He stressed the need for a cultural shift in healthcare awareness, stating that both mindset and attitude play crucial roles in health outcomes.
“Illnesses stem not only from viruses but also from our beliefs and attitudes. A culture of awareness leads to better health decisions. The Archdiocese of Pampanga supports PhilHealth in fostering this change,” Lavarias said.
Dexter S. Maglalang, Head of PhilHealth Membership Section Branch A, concluded the event by reading a congratulatory message from Acting Branch A Manager Dr. Rowena S. Zabat-San Mateo, recognizing the Archdiocese’s commitment to securing the health coverage of its clergy.