MANILA -- The Department of Budget and Management (DBM) has allocated over P23 billion under the proposed 2023 national budget to upgrade various health care facilities and services across the country.

The significant amount of budget to support the Health Facilities Enhancement Program (HFEP) is in line with the Marcos administration’s commitment to providing quality and affordable health care for all Filipinos. The program seeks to bring proper health care to the regions and rural areas.

The P23 billion fund shall be used for the purchase of medical equipment as well as the construction, rehabilitation, and upgrading of various health facilities nationwide, such as barangay health stations (P2 billion), rural health units (P5.6 billion), polyclinics (P80 million), LGU hospitals (P2.7 billion), DOH hospitals (11.2 billion), and other health facilities (P1.3 billion).

“The funds for the 2023 HFEP are focused on the gaps identified based on the updated Philippine Health Facility Development Plan for 2022 to 2040 that supports the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act,” Budget Secretary Amenah F. Pangandaman noted.

“We must be prepared for any unprecedented situation and health emergencies. The COVID-19 pandemic has illustrated our need for a strong health care system that’s why health care will continuously be a budget priority,” Secretary Pangandaman added.

Overall, the health sector will receive a hefty budget allocation of P296 billion under the 2023 National Expenditure Program (NEP).

Apart from the improvement of health facilities and services, the Marcos administration will likewise allot funds to strengthen the country’s health care system by providing support to the healthcare workforce, research and development, and ensuring affordable and inclusive healthcare. (DBM)