Starting December 7, 2019, PhilHealth implemented a revised premium contribution schedule for direct contributors, as outlined in PhilHealth Circular No. 2019-0009. This adjustment reflects gradual increases in premium rates, ensuring that the National Health Insurance Program remains sustainable while providing better healthcare coverage for Filipinos. Below, we’ll break down the changes year by year and highlight what these mean for contributors.
Why the Change?
The increase in contribution rates aligns with the Universal Health Care Law, which mandates broader and more comprehensive health insurance coverage for Filipinos. The law ensures that more funds are available to provide expanded benefits, better services, and enhanced financial risk protection.
The New Premium Contribution Rates (2019–2025)
PhilHealth’s premium contributions are calculated based on a member's monthly basic salary and increase incrementally each year. Below is an overview of the changes:
2019: 2.75% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱275 monthly contribution
- ₱10,000.01–₱49,999.99: ₱275 to ₱1,375
- ₱50,000 and above: ₱1,375
2020: 3.00% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱300
- ₱10,000.01–₱59,999.99: ₱300 to ₱1,800
- ₱60,000 and above: ₱1,800
2021: 3.50% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱350
- ₱10,000.01–₱69,999.99: ₱350 to ₱2,450
- ₱70,000 and above: ₱2,450
2022: 4.00% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱400
- ₱10,000.01–₱79,999.99: ₱400 to ₱3,200
- ₱80,000 and above: ₱3,200
2023: 4.50% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱450
- ₱10,000.01–₱89,999.99: ₱450 to ₱4,050
- ₱90,000 and above: ₱4,050
2024–2025: 5.00% Premium Rate
- Salary Range:
- ₱10,000: ₱500
- ₱10,000.01–₱99,999.99: ₱500 to ₱5,000
- ₱100,000 and above: ₱5,000
Key Points to Remember
- Computation Basis: Contributions are computed based on an employee’s monthly basic salary.
- Salary Cap: A ceiling is applied to contributions, meaning higher salaries are capped at the maximum premium rate for that year. For instance, in 2024–2025, those earning ₱100,000 or more will pay a maximum of ₱5,000 monthly.
- Shared Responsibility: For employed individuals, contributions are equally shared between the employer and employee. For self-employed individuals and voluntary contributors, the member shoulders the entire premium.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Employees: Expect a gradual increase in your PhilHealth deductions, which ensures you are covered for a wider range of health services.
- Self-Employed and Voluntary Members: Plan your finances accordingly as premiums will continue to rise yearly.
Enhanced Benefits with Higher Contributions
PhilHealth assures that these contributions translate to better benefits for members, including access to a broader network of accredited healthcare providers, improved inpatient and outpatient care, and reduced out-of-pocket expenses.
Conclusion
The premium rate adjustments reflect the government’s commitment to universal healthcare for all Filipinos. While the increases may require financial adjustments for contributors, they also promise improved services and benefits that support the long-term goal of providing equitable healthcare access to every citizen.
If you have questions or need further assistance, you can reach out to PhilHealth through their Action Center (actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph) or their social media channels.