Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte signed a law on February 21, 2019 expanding the coverage of PhilHealth to all Filipinos, including those working outside the country.
The Universal Health Care Act includes all citizens of the Philippines, and its services to provide members free medical consultation, laboratory tests, and other diagnostic requirements.
Duterte says the law guarantees equitable access to quality and affordable health care services for all Filipinos.
OFWs as direct contributors
According to PhilHealth, direct contributors are mandated to pay health premiums, which is 3% of their salaries. All OFWs are considered direct contributors.
