Malacañang on Saturday directed the Department of Health (DOH) to work closely with partner healthcare facilities to expedite the processing of claims under the Medical Assistance to Indigent and Financially Capacitated Patients (MAIFIP) Program.

In a statement, Executive Secretary Ralph Recto cited the importance of close coordination between the DOH and healthcare providers to ensure the smooth and efficient implementation of the MAIFIP program.

“Let us continue coordinating with the regional directors, verify the accounts payable, and process the valid claims promptly. These funds are available to support our patients and our partner hospitals,” Recto said.

The directive was issued following the Department of Budget and Management’s (DBM) recent release of PHP27.4 billion to the DOH under the 2026 General Appropriations Act for the continued implementation of the program.

The allocation underscores President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s commitment to ensuring that government resources are readily available for families facing medical and financial difficulties.

MAIFIP funds will cover valid claims for essential healthcare services, including hospitalization, medicines, emergency treatment, professional fees, and other necessary medical expenses.

Recto said the timely processing of legitimate claims would help ensure the uninterrupted delivery of health services, particularly to patients from vulnerable and low-income communities.

He also underscored the need to support participating hospitals in strengthening their operations.

“For President Marcos, every available resource must be used to deliver meaningful assistance to the Filipino people. Through MAIFIP, we are helping patients obtain the care they need while supporting hospitals that serve communities every day,” he said.

Of the released funds, about PHP19.14 billion will be distributed to the DOH Centers for Health Development to extend medical assistance through regional networks and partner healthcare facilities nationwide.

PHP4.35 billion will support DOH hospitals in Metro Manila and the regions, and PHP2.91 billion will be allocated to the Lung Center of the Philippines, National Kidney and Transplant Institute, Philippine Children’s Medical Center, and Philippine Heart Center.

The University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital will receive PHP950 million, while PHP52 million will support Drug Abuse Treatment and Rehabilitation Centers. (PNA)