Sen. Cayetano urges support for stronger preventive and universal healthcare

Senior Finance Vice Chairperson Sen. Pia S. Cayetano pushed for stronger support for preventive and universal healthcare as she opened deliberations on the 2026 budget of the Department of Health. She raised concern over the under-allocation of sin tax revenues intended for Philhealth, urging that the full amount mandated by law be remitted. For 2026, she noted that only ₱53.26 billion was included in the National Expenditure Program, despite certifications from the BIR and BOC showing that ₱69.78 billion should have been allocated by law.

Cayetano, who is the Committee on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Innovation, and Futures Thinking Chairperson, also stressed the need to align the health budget with SDG 3: Good Health and Well-Being, calling for better hospital infrastructure, more health workers, and interventions to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. She likewise acknowledged the recent Cebu earthquake and urged DOH to record its response and mobilize volunteers.