DBM Releases P27.4 Billion for Medical Aid to Indigent Filipinos

P27.4 Billion Released for Indigent Healthcare Program

The Department of Budget and Management has released P27.4 billion to fund the continued implementation of the government’s Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients program. The funds cover hospitalization, medicines, emergency treatment, professional fees, and other healthcare needs for qualifying patients nationwide.

Funding Tied to 2026 General Appropriations Act

The allocation is chargeable against the Department of Health’s regular budget under the 2026 General Appropriations Act, according to the Philippine News Agency. Department of Budget and Management Acting Secretary Kim Robert de Leon stated that the release guarantees ongoing state assistance for families struggling with medical expenses.

Distribution Across Regional Centers and Specialty Facilities

The distribution channels span multiple tiers of the public health infrastructure to reach patients across the country.

• Centers for Health Development: P19.145 billion will go to regional centers to support medical assistance delivery through local government hospitals, private facilities, and other health centers.
• Department of Health Hospitals: P4.353 billion is designated for agency-managed hospitals in Metro Manila and the regions.
• Specialty Hospitals: P2.910 billion is allocated for the Lung Center of the Philippines, the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, the Philippine Children’s Medical Center, and the Philippine Heart Center.
• University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital: P950 million will support the state-run medical center.
• Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers: P52 million is earmarked for rehabilitation facilities.

Reaching Communities Outside Major Urban Centers

"Medical need does not recognize geography or income," De Leon said, emphasizing that routing the largest share through regional health centers aims to bring care closer to communities outside major urban centers.

Digital Integration via eGovPH Superapp

According to the Philippine News Agency, the funding will also support the deployment of the eMAIFIP system through the eGovPH superapp, aligning with Department of Health guidelines and presidential directives to streamline access via digital channels.