For many Filipino families, the cost of pregnancy and childbirth remains a major financial concern. A new partnership between the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) aims to help ease that burden by expanding access to affordable maternal and reproductive healthcare services.
The agreement supports the implementation of the Responsible Parenthood and Reproductive Health Act and the Universal Health Care Act, while advancing the country's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Officials said the collaboration will focus on ensuring that more women can access essential healthcare services without being deterred by high medical costs.
Expanded Coverage for Pregnancy and Delivery
The partnership comes as PhilHealth continues to strengthen its maternity benefit packages, which now provide significantly higher coverage for both normal and cesarean deliveries.
The expanded benefits also include coverage for the recommended prenatal and postnatal checkups, helping mothers receive continuous care throughout pregnancy and after childbirth.
UNFPA Country Representative Neus Bernabeu said access to quality maternal healthcare should not depend on a family's ability to pay.
“This partnership is about expanding access to quality care, supporting healthier communities, and securing the lifelong well-being of every Filipino family,” Bernabeu said.
PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Edwin Mercado said the state insurer remains committed to reducing out-of-pocket healthcare expenses.
“Through this partnership with UNFPA and our expanded maternity care benefits, we ensure that all pregnant persons can receive quality services without fear of incurring exorbitant medical costs,” Mercado said.
From National Policy to Community Care
Beyond financial coverage, the two organizations will work together on localized health investments, maternal care programs, and capacity-building efforts to ensure services reach communities across the country.
UNFPA Asia and the Pacific Regional Director Aleksandar Bodiroza said the partnership showcases how cooperation between institutions can turn healthcare policies into practical benefits for citizens.
PhilHealth said the initiative is expected to strengthen maternal healthcare services while helping build a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for Filipino women and families.
