Manila: The Department of Health (DOH) on Friday welcomed the release of PHP27.41 billion by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) for the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients Program (MAIFIP). The release of the funds, under this year's General Appropriations Act, will ensure the continuous delivery of critical health services to vulnerable Filipinos.

According to Philippines News Agency, the majority of the allocation will be distributed through the DOH's Centers for Health Development (CHD) to guarantee wider healthcare coverage beyond Metro Manila. Earlier, the DBM announced that approximately PHP19.145 billion will be directed to CHDs to support the delivery of medical assistance through partner local government hospitals, privately owned institutions, and other health facilities.

Additionally, PHP4.353 billion will be allocated to DOH hospitals in Metro Manila and other regions, while PHP2.910 billion is designated for the Lung Center of the Philippines, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Children's Medical Center, and Philippine Heart Center. Furthermore, PHP950 million will go to the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, and PHP52 million is earmarked for drug abuse treatment and rehabilitation centers.

To streamline access and accelerate the processing of medical aid, the DOH is enhancing digital access to the program via the government's centralized mobile application. The agency stated its continued coordination with the DBM and partner facilities nationwide to ensure that every peso reaches every Filipino family in need.