Over 3,000 individuals living with HIV in Quezon City received vital healthcare support, following the release of Php 76.6 million in claims payment from PhilHealth to the Quezon City Government.
From 1 January 2024 to 18 July 2025, a total of 3,086 patients benefited from the Outpatient HIV/AIDS Treatment (OHAT) Package through the city’s PhilHealth-accredited HIV Treatment Hub. The amount covers claims for services and medications provided during this period.
In a ceremonial turnover held on 23 July 2025, PhilHealth Acting President and Chief Executive Officer Dr. Edwin M. Mercado handed over the check to Quezon City Mayor Josefina "Joy" Belmonte. Also present were Quezon City Health Officer Dr. Romana Abarquez, PhilHealth NCR Vice-President Dr. Bernadette Lico, and other PhilHealth officers.
The OHAT Package was recently expanded to Php 58,500 annually, nearly doubling from its previous Php 30,000 coverage. This increase ensures that more people living with HIV (PLHIV) have consistent access to anti-retroviral therapy and essential health services.
The benefit expansion aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s call to improve HIV care delivery nationwide amid rising infection rates. By strengthening support for HIV treatment, the government aims to improve health outcomes and reduce barriers to care.
PhilHealth is encouraging members and communities to make use of the OHAT Package and to raise awareness about available services. With 271 PhilHealth-accredited HIV Treatment facilities across the Philippines, access to care is within reach for many who need it.