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Sea-based OFWs to pay higher PhilHealth contribution starting this month

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III confirmed Friday, January 5, 2018, at a forum in Manila, that all members of Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) shall pay additional 0.25 percent or 25 basis points (bps) in their premium contributions starting this month.

“Premium contribution will increase by 0.25 percent effective Jan. 2018. This is very low considering that it’s been almost three decades since the contribution was increased and considering the many benefits that we have for members,” said Duque.

Under PhilHealth 2017-0024, the adjustment covers sea-based Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) along with kasambahays as well as all employees in the government and private sectors.

Duque 1
Health Secretary Francisco Duque III

The monthly premium contributions rate shall be at 2.75 percent up from the previous 2.50 percent to be equally paid by the employee and the employer.

For those with P10,000 and below as basic salary, the monthly premium is P275.00.

Those earning from P10,000.01 to P39,999.99, they are subject to pay P275.02 to P1,099.99; while those receiving P40,000 and above are obliged to pay P1,100.00.

As for domestic workers, their contributions shall be shouldered solely by the household employer. If the domestic worker is earning P5,000 monthly then he/she shall have her proportionate share, as per RA. 10361, or “Domestic Workers Act.”

The health secretary noted that the increase will double the actuarial solvency of PhilHealth from four years to eight-and-a-half years, as it will also help maintain its sustainability.

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