Given the continued challenges posed by the global health crisis, the Marcos administration has pledged unwavering attention to the health and well-being of every Filipino.
The commitment is a response to the population’s immediate needs and a step towards long-term health security.
The administration has bolstered the healthcare system with numerous health initiatives, ensuring no one is left behind.
On Wednesday, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced in a press briefing that the government is working to eliminate malaria on or before 2030, as advocated by the World Health Organization (WHO) drive against it.
“Bilang tugon ng PhilHealth sa panawagan ng World Health Organization na magkaisa laban sa malaria, pinalawak pa nito ang benepisyo para sa malaria,” Castro said.
PhilHealth has increased the coverage of outpatient malaria services from PhP 780 to PhP 1,170. t includes diagnostic smears, rapid tests, Artemether + Lumefantrine medication, consultations, patient education, and counseling.
Members can use these benefits at 1,816 PhilHealth-accredited facilities, including primary care centers and outpatient malaria clinics. Coverage for uncomplicated malaria ranges from PhP 5,460 to PhP 7,800.
According to Castro, the PhilHealth move on malaria care coverage aligns with President Marcos’ directive to implement a faster, more affordable health package to benefit ordinary Filipinos.
She noted that President Marcos has directed all concerned agencies to focus on improving the country’s health services and programs.
“Ayon kay Dr. Edwin Mercado (president and chief executive officer) ng PhilHealth, ang bagong malaria package ay hakbang tungo sa mas mabilis at abot-kayang serbisyo para sa lahat, bilang suporta sa layuning wakasan ang malaria pagsapit ng 2030,” Castro said.
Malaria is a disease caused by a protozoan infection transmitted to humans through the bites of female Anopheles mosquitoes. It can be cured if diagnosed and treated promptly and correctly.
In 2023, the Department of Health’s Research Institute for Tropical Medicine reported a 90 percent increase in malaria cases, with 6,248 cases recorded compared to the previous year’s total of 3,245.
In 2024, 72 of the 82 provinces in the Philippines were declared malaria-free. PhilHealth emphasized that these developments highlight the need for renewed efforts to control and eliminate malaria.
