Rep. Erwin Tulfo
RECOGNIZING the sacrifices of Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) and their immense contributions to the Philippine economy, ACT-CIS Partylist Representative and senatorial candidate Cong. Erwin Tulfo is pushing for full PhilHealth coverage of hospital bills for OFWs and their families.
In a recent media interview, Tulfo emphasized the importance of ensuring accessible and worry-free healthcare for OFWs—whom he calls the country’s modern-day heroes—especially those in low-wage jobs such as domestic work and manual labor.
“This will be a huge relief for OFWs, especially those who earn just enough to support their families. They sacrifice so much by being away from their loved ones, and they shouldn’t have to worry about hospital expenses too.”
Currently, PhilHealth only covers a portion of medical expenses, leaving OFWs and their families to shoulder significant out-of-pocket costs. Tulfo believes that even a 50% increase in PhilHealth coverage would be a game-changer—but full coverage would be even better.
“If PhilHealth can cover at least half of the bill, that would already be a big help. But imagine if OFWs and their families didn’t have to pay anything at all,” he pointed out.
This proposal isn’t just about the OFWs themselves—it’s also about the families they leave behind in pursuit of a better future. Tulfo revealed that this issue was a major concern raised by OFWs during his visit to Paris, France for Barrio Fiesta 2025 earlier this month.
A long-time advocate for OFW welfare, Cong. Tulfo is set to file a bill ensuring zero hospital billing for OFWs and their families—a move that could ease their financial burdens and provide them the healthcare security they deserve. (END)
