The Provincial Health Insurance Management Board convened recently and discussed strategic initiatives aimed at revitalizing the Provincial Health Insurance of Negros Oriental (PHINO).
The meeting, led by Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, focused on strengthening, expanding, and modernizing the province’s local health insurance system to better serve all residents, with particular emphasis on reaching the underserved and marginalized communities.

This initiative underscores the provincial government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive, efficient, and sustainable healthcare environment, the Capitol said in a press release, adding that key stakeholders committed to advancing healthcare coverage across the province.
Discussions centered on strategies to enhance the coverage and benefits of PHINO, incorporating modern health management practices, and fostering partnerships with various sectors to ensure broader reach and sustainability.
The revitalization aims to address gaps in healthcare access, particularly for vulnerable populations, aligning with the province’s broader goal of equitable health services for all, the Capitol said.
“This revitalization effort is a crucial step toward ensuring that every Negros Oriental resident can access quality healthcare without financial hardship,” Sagarbarria stressed. “We are committed to making PHINO a robust, inclusive system that truly serves the needs of our people.”
The board plans to conduct further consultations and embark on targeted outreach programs to facilitate the system’s modernization. The initiative is set to roll out in phases in the coming months, with continuous evaluation and stakeholder engagement.
Present at the meeting July 14 were Dr. Liland Estacion, Board Member Peter Paul Renacia, BM Bruno Bouffard III – chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan Committee on Health, Atty. Thea Anne Marie Ceniza of the Provincial Administrative Support Group, Rev. Ed Samson representing the religious sector, and NGO leader, Dr. Profetiza Lim. ||