National health insurer Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is celebrating its 31st anniversary today, 14 February, with a mix of public service initiatives and expanded health benefits, reaffirming its mandate to provide universal health coverage to Filipinos.

Established in 1995, PhilHealth observes its anniversary alongside National Health Insurance Month every February. This year’s theme, “Ka-YAKAP ang Pilipino sa Kalusugang Segurado,” highlights the agency’s commitment to making healthcare more accessible and reliable for members across the country.

As part of the 2026 celebration, PhilHealth partnered with railway operators to offer free rides to cardholders on MRT-3 and LRT-2 on 14 February. Members may avail of complimentary trips from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and again from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., a gesture aimed at easing commuting costs and engaging the public during the anniversary.

Community-based activities were also organized in several regions. In Region IV-A, a food bazaar and flea market held from 9 to 13 February drew local entrepreneurs and residents, blending livelihood support with the anniversary festivities.

Beyond the celebrations, PhilHealth highlighted major reforms rolled out over the past year. In 2025 alone, PhilHealth disbursed over P217 billion in benefits nationwide, reflecting sustained utilization of the National Health Insurance Program.

Effective 1 January 2025, the agency increased case rates for around 9,000 benefit packages by 50 percent to better match prevailing hospital costs. Coverage for moderate-risk pneumonia rose to P29,250 from P19,500, while benefits for Caesarean section increased to P37,050 from P24,700. The case rate for cholecystectomy was also adjusted upward to P60,450.

The Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit was introduced to cover urgent cases that do not require 24-hour confinement, including emergency room treatment and ambulance services. Enhancements were also made to selected Z Benefit packages for serious illnesses, including higher coverage for extracapsular cataract extraction.

Primary care services were expanded through PhilHealth YAKAP, the revamped Konsulta package, which now includes additional laboratory tests and medicines. Under PhilHealth GAMOT, 54 more outpatient medicines were added to the list of covered drugs. Six cancer screening tests are now available free to members in selected facilities, while preventive dental services have been integrated into primary care.

As it enters its 31st year, the agency said it remains focused on strengthening benefit packages, improving systems and ensuring that more Filipinos receive financial protection against the rising cost of healthcare.