More than 1,100 hospitals across the Philippines still do not offer zero-balance billing, according to Senator Pia Cayetano, who highlighted the issue in her privilege speech following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s fifth State of the Nation Address (Sona). The program, which aims to reduce medical debt by allowing patients to pay only for services used, remains unimplemented in most facilities. Cayetano’s remarks came a day after Marcos praised the initiative during his Sona, raising questions about the gap between policy promises and actual implementation.
Political observers in Cebu City expressed skepticism about the administration’s ability to deliver on its promises, with some critics calling for tangible results rather than rhetoric. A local political analyst noted that while Marcos outlined several promising proposals, Filipinos are now demanding action rather than more pledges. The lack of progress on zero-balance billing has fueled public frustration, as many remain burdened by medical debt despite government assurances.
The discrepancy between the president’s Sona and the current state of healthcare access underscores ongoing challenges in policy execution. With over 1,100 hospitals still not offering the service, the issue remains unresolved, prompting calls for greater transparency and accountability from the administration. (newsinfo.inquirer.net)
