Manila: The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) has paid out PHP143.22 billion in benefit claims nationwide from January 1 to April 30, 2026, marking a 56.15-percent increase compared to the PHP91.72 billion released during the same period last year.

According to Philippines News Agency, the increase in benefit payments reflects the state insurer's continuous effort to expand health coverage and improve access to medical services for Filipinos. Data revealed that benefit payments to private health facilities reached PHP84.65 billion in the first four months of 2026, up by 58.16 percent from PHP53.52 billion recorded in the same period in 2025.

Meanwhile, payments to government health facilities rose by 53.33 percent to PHP58.57 billion from PHP38.20 billion last year. PhilHealth reported that more than 9.1 million Filipinos received medical assistance during the four-month period.

"Ang bawat numerong ito ay hindi lamang simpleng claims o benepisyo. Ito ay patunay ng bayanihan at pagkalinga ng kapwa Pilipino sa oras ng pangangailangan (Each number represents more than just claims or benefits. These are proof of bayanihan and the care of fellow Filipinos during times of need)," the agency stated.

The state insurer further highlighted that contributions from members played a crucial role in providing strength and hope to patients and families facing health challenges. It assured the public of its commitment to continue improving and expanding healthcare programs to ensure that more Filipinos benefit from accessible and quality health services.

The figures were based on Reports of Checks Issued and Advice and included the Daily Crediting payment scheme from PhilHealth regional offices in the Cordillera Administrative Region, Calabarzon, Zamboanga Peninsula, Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao, and Caraga.