Manila: The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) announced its collaboration with Congress and the Executive branch to reintegrate PHP60 billion into the Philippine Health Insurance Corp, (PhilHealth) through the 2026 national budget. This initiative aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DBM emphasized that this move represents the clearest and most transparent method to fortify the National Health Insurance Program, directly benefiting Filipino citizens. The department also mentioned that a special provision may be incorporated into the 2026 General Appropriations Act to clarify the source and intended application of the funds.

President Marcos had previously stated that the PHP60 billion in PhilHealth's excess funds, which were returned to the national treasury, will be reinstated to the agency. This decision is largely due to government savings, primarily from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

In 2024, the Department of Finance mandated the transfer of PHP89.9 billion in unused PhilHealth subsidies to the Treasury. Out of the total, PHP60 billion has already been remitted, while approximately PHP29 billion remains with PhilHealth following a temporary restraining order issued by the Supreme Court on the transfer.

The President's announcement coincides with the administration's intensified efforts to implement its zero balance billing policy in state-run hospitals.