President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. announced a major increase in maternity benefits under the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), aimed at improving access to safer and more affordable maternal healthcare.
In a video message posted on his official social media accounts, Marcos said the new rates will take effect on April 30.
Under the updated package, coverage for normal deliveries in hospitals will increase to P29,000 from P9,750. Benefits for cesarean section deliveries will also rise to between P58,000 and P62,000, up from P37,000.
The President added that maternity care in ward sections, including those in private hospitals, will now be fully covered, making childbirth services more accessible to expectant mothers.
PhilHealth will also expand prenatal care benefits, increasing covered checkups from four to eight visits. These include essential vaccinations and laboratory tests to help monitor maternal and fetal health throughout pregnancy.
Postnatal care coverage will likewise be enhanced, with three checkups for mothers now included under the package.
“Simple lamang ang ating layunin. Nais natin matiyak na ang bawat ina ay makakapag-manganak ng ligtas at hindi nag-aalala kung saan kukuha ng pambayad,” Marcos said.
Health officials said the expanded benefits form part of broader efforts to improve maternal and infant health outcomes by encouraging early prenatal consultations and ensuring safe delivery in accredited facilities.