PhilHealth, DBP, Tingog partner to revolutionize rural healthcare infra
TINGOG Party-list, in collaboration with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP), took a decisive step in addressing the critical healthcare infrastructure gaps in rural areas through the “Maalagang Republika: Rural Financing Health Development Program.” The partnership was formalized in a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signing ceremony held at the DBP Amphitheater, graced by the presence of prominent officials, including House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez.
This milestone event underscored a unified effort to equip local government units (LGUs) with the necessary financing to construct, expand, and modernize healthcare facilities. With DBP’s provision of credit facilities, PhilHealth’s operational support under the National Health Insurance Program, and Tingog Party-list’s engagement with LGUs, the program offers a comprehensive solution to strengthen healthcare delivery in underserved areas.
The ceremony was attended by key stakeholders, including Michael O. De Jesus, President and CEO of the Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP); George S. Inocencio, Executive Vice President of DBP’s Development and Resiliency Sector; Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr., President and CEO of PhilHealth; and Renato L. Limsico Jr., Senior Vice President for PhilHealth’s Fund Management Sector. From the legislative side, Senior Deputy Speaker Aurelio Gonzales Jr., House Secretary General Reginald Velasco, and Tingog Party-list Representative Jude Acidre also participated, highlighting Congress’ strong support for the initiative.
The Maalagang Republika Program seeks to empower LGUs by providing financial mechanisms to improve hospital infrastructure, ensuring the availability of modern medical equipment, and fostering the establishment of primary healthcare facilities. This collaborative approach aligns with the goals of the Universal Health Care Act, aiming to bring equitable and efficient healthcare services closer to rural communities.
House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez emphasized the transformative potential of this partnership, describing it as a critical effort to enhance the quality of life for Filipinos in underserved areas. The program highlights the government’s commitment to reducing healthcare disparities and ensuring no Filipino is left behind.
Rep. Jude Acidre shared a personal story that emphasized the urgent need for improved healthcare infrastructure: “When we were conceptualizing the Samar Island Medical Center, which will soon become the first-ever tertiary hospital on the island of Samar, thanks to the legislative initiative of Speaker Romualdez and Tingog Party-list Rep. Yedda Marie K. Romualdez, I was struck by how underserved our communities truly are. I remember thinking then: If Samar, one of the largest islands in the country, does not have a tertiary hospital, how many more island provinces and remote areas lack access to adequate hospital services? This is not just about inadequate social services—it’s about a longstanding social injustice.”
He further explained the partnership’s significance, stating, “This partnership we are formalizing today is a significant step toward addressing those gaps. With the lending program from DBP, local government units will now have the opportunity to upgrade and enhance their healthcare facilities. Whether it’s constructing new hospitals, modernizing existing ones, or acquiring cutting-edge equipment, this initiative is our way of empowering LGUs to take charge of their communities’ healthcare needs. But let me be clear—this is not just about infrastructure. This is about saving lives. It’s about ensuring that no child is born in unsafe conditions just because the nearest birthing facility is hours away. It’s about giving our healthcare workers the tools they need to deliver the care they are so passionate about. It’s about meeting our people where they are, especially in the farthest corners of the country.”
Today’s MOA signing reflects the power of partnerships in addressing critical challenges and creating meaningful change. By working together, PhilHealth, DBP, and Tingog Party-list have taken a significant step toward building a healthcare system that ensures no Filipino is left behind. This collaboration marks the beginning of lasting improvements in healthcare infrastructure, empowering communities and improving the lives of countless Filipinos.
