Department of Health Secretary Ted Herbosa recently said patients no longer require guarantee letters from politicians under the full implementation of the Zero Balance Billing (ZBB) policy, which aims to ensure indigent patients in DOH-run hospitals do not pay out-of-pocket expenses for basic accommodations. Herbosa noted that the 2026 General Appropriations Act contains “anti-epal” provisions prohibiting elective officials from distributing medical aid to curb patronage politics.

Baguio Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong, however, described the Secretary’s claims as inaccurate. He said the Baguio City Local Government Unit (LGU) remains a necessary partner of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC), noting that the city continues to issue guarantee letters to residents because national programs do not always cover the full cost of medical services.

Magalong said the LGU maintains complete records of all guarantee letters issued to support patients with hospital payments. He added that national policies, while intended to streamline aid, still leave many patients with balances they cannot afford.

“May seryosong problema serbisyong pangkalusugan ang banda natin. Ilahad po natin ang totoo at aktuwal na sitwasyon sa mga ospital upang matugunan nang tama ang mga problemang ito,” (“Our healthcare services have serious problems. Let us present the actual situation in hospitals so these issues can be properly addressed,”) the mayor said.