Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez expressed strong support Sept. 14 for President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s “zero-billing” initiative, a landmark healthcare program ensuring free medical services in 22 public hospitals nationwide.
Launched on the President’s 67th birthday Sept. 13, this initiative represents a significant step toward making healthcare accessible to all Filipinos, according to the leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives.
“The zero-billing program is a clear demonstration of the President’s unwavering commitment to the Filipino people, ensuring that no one is left behind in receiving the medical care they need,” Romualdez said in a press release from his office.
“By covering all inpatient, outpatient, and emergency services in 22 public hospitals across the country, the President is turning his vision of universal healthcare into reality,” he added.
On the President’s directive, the Department of Health allocated P328 million to fund the zero-billing initiative, covering not only hospital bills but also drugs, medicines, and essential medical services, such as chemotherapy, dialysis, dental services, and laboratory procedures.
The program has been implemented in key tertiary hospitals across the National Capital Region, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao.
Romualdez highlighted the life-changing impact of the initiative, stressing that it relieves Filipinos, especially those in vulnerable communities, from the burden of costly medical services.
“Whether it’s dialysis, chemotherapy, or emergency treatment, the government is stepping up to provide real, tangible relief to our people,” he said.
The zero-billing program includes eight major hospitals in the NCR, such as the National Kidney and Transplant Institute and the Philippine General Hospital, along with 14 other hospitals across Luzon, the Visayas, and Mindanao.
“This extensive coverage shows the administration’s genuine concern for the health and welfare of Filipinos in every region of the country,” Romualdez noted.
“This is the kind of leadership we need—decisive action that directly benefits the people. I stand firmly with President Marcos in this endeavor and pledge my full support in ensuring healthcare remains a top priority for our government,” he added.
The House chief also emphasized that this initiative is just the beginning, as the government continues to explore ways to expand healthcare services and make medical care more accessible and affordable for all.
“As we celebrate the President’s birthday, let us also celebrate his leadership and his deep care for the Filipino people,” Romualdez added. ||
