BICAM BOOSTS HEALTH AID ‘PORK’ TO P51.6 BILLION

Lawmakers approved a P51.6-billion allocation for the Department of Health’s Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) program, more than double the executive branch’s proposed P24.2 billion.

MAIFIP requires patients to secure “guarantee letters” from legislators or politicians to access benefits, raising concerns about political patronage.

Senators and House representatives debated safeguards, with some proposing provisions to prevent officials from influencing aid distribution.

Supporters argued the program helps around 1.1 million patients who could lose access if funding were lower, while critics said it highlights flaws in PhilHealth and the broader health system.

Religious leaders criticized the reliance on political endorsements, calling it a violation of human dignity and a moral failure in public service.

Source: PhilNews24 | December 15, 2025