By JJ Rico

The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) recently released a new contribution schedule for direct contributors in accordance to the Universal Health Care Law of 2019. Direct contributor refers to those employed and bound by an employer-employee relationship. In addition, house helpers, self-earning individuals, practicing professionals, and overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) are also part of this category.
According to last month’s PhilHealth Circular No. 2019-0009, the 2.75 percent premium rate for direct contributors will rise to three percent next year and will increase in half percent increments until reaching five percent in 2025. Additionally, the income floor will remain at P10,000 as the ceiling will see an incremental rise from the current P50,000 to P100,000 in 2025.
Meanwhile, premiums for self-paying members, professional practitioners, and land-based OFWs are computed based on their monthly earnings and paid in whole by the member.
The new schedule takes effect tomorrow, December 7.
According to PhilHealth, “The new schedule will help ensure sustainability of the National Health Insurance Fund, guaranteeing that all Filipinos are able to avail of outpatient benefit packages.” (PR)