Manila: More than 1.3 million patients in Department of Health (DOH) hospitals concluded 2025 without paying hospital bills, thanks to the government's Zero Balance Billing (ZBB) program.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DOH reported in a social media post on Saturday that from July to December 2025, a total of PHP 74.65 billion worth of hospital charges were fully covered for patients admitted in basic or ward accommodations. The ZBB policy is rigorously enforced in all DOH-managed hospitals.

Under the 2026 national budget, the Philippine Heart Center, Lung Center, National Children's Hospital, and National Kidney and Transplant Institute each received an additional PHP1 billion to support the ZBB initiative, particularly for complex procedures. Furthermore, a PHP1 billion funding is designated for selected local government unit hospitals.

At least 90 percent of hospital beds in DOH facilities are reserved for basic accommodations, enabling an estimated 90 percent of admitted patients to qualify for ZBB. The DOH stated that the increased funding will assist in maintaining and expanding access to free hospital services for indigent and financially challenged patients.