Glesilda J. De Luna, a solo parent from Barangay Canlapwas, Catbalogan City, faced a parent’s worst nightmare when her daughter fell ill with dengue. For nine agonizing days, her daughter was hospitalized, surrounded by uncertainty. De Luna’s city is among the top five locations in Samar province with a high incidence of dengue, according to the provincial health office.
Though dengue remains a concern, the situation between January and March 2025 has been relatively stable, with no reports of severe cases or fatalities.
PhilHealth provided crucial support, offering members like De Luna financial relief. The agency covers up to P47,000 for severe dengue hospitalization and P19,500 for mild cases. These enhanced and rationalized rates, implemented in 2024, followed President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to improve health insurance coverage.
Miramar Palacio-Zabala, public relations officer from PhilHealth Regional Office VIII, said dengue cases are among the top five medical packages covered by PhilHealth. Claims average around P10,000, highlighting the package’s priority, especially given the country’s dengue endemicity.
“Thank you very much because PhilHealth has been a great help to someone like me, a solo parent. Of course, I don’t have any other source of funds for expenses, especially for sudden emergencies like when someone in our family gets sick. The assistance provided by PhilHealth has been a huge help to us,” De Luna said.
In addition to PhilHealth’s support, the Samar Provincial Health Office has launched a community-wide campaign to eliminate mosquito breeding sites. The office provides technical assistance and resources, including chemicals for fogging machines and mosquito repellents.
De Luna’s experience underscores the importance of healthcare support systems like PhilHealth in providing financial relief during medical emergencies. Her story highlights the need for continued investment in health insurance, especially in areas prone to diseases like dengue. With PhilHealth’s support and community-led initiatives, families can better manage medical expenses and protect their health and well-being. (AAC, PIA Samar)
