MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) denied allegations that it allocated nearly ₱138 million for a Christmas party, stating the budget is intended for its 30th-anniversary celebration in 2025.
The clarification came after health advocate Dr. Tony Leachon posted on social media what appeared to be a PhilHealth document showing a budget of ₱137,766,032 for items such as coffee table books, newspaper features, building displays, tokens, giveaways, and commemorative medals.
In his initial Facebook post, Leachon accused the agency of spending excessively for a Christmas event, calling the leadership “abusive” and criticizing their alleged failure to use funds properly.
PhilHealth, however, countered the claim, describing it as “misinformed” and explaining that the budget is for milestone anniversary activities in line with National Health Insurance Month, as declared under Proclamation 1400 s. 2007.
“The approved activities are reasonable, budgeted according to government-mandated limits, and will be procured under the Government Procurement Reform Act (RA 9184),” the agency said.
It emphasized that the plans aim to highlight healthcare reform and mark the corporation’s milestone year meaningfully.
PhilHealth also noted that it is fully complying with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to scale down Christmas celebrations to show solidarity with victims of recent typhoons.
Leachon later edited his post to reflect that the budget was for PhilHealth’s anniversary, but his original post had already garnered significant attention, with over 18,000 shares as of this writing.
PhilHealth maintained that the document’s details are not final and urged the public to avoid spreading misinformation.
Leachon, a known critic of the agency, is currently facing a cyber libel case filed by a pharmaceutical company over separate allegations.