Bam eyes mandatory Philhealth coverage for PWDs

Persons with disabilities (PWDs) will be granted mandatory Philhealth coverage once the measure filed by Sen. Bam Aquino is enacted into law.

"This is a straightforward measure to support our disadvantaged countrymen -- our persons with disabilities," Sen. Bam said, referring to Senate Bill No. 356 or the Mandatory PhilHealth for PWDs Act.

"First and foremost, social services should be provided to those with the least in society. Health services should be provided to those who need it the most," he added.

By providing mandatory Philhealth coverage to PWDs, Sen. Bam said the Philippines will move closer to fulfilling all the needs of underprivileged Filipinos.

The measure will amend Republic Act 7277 or the "Magna Carta for Persons with Disability", to add PWDs under the mandatory Philhealth coverage.

In the 16th Congress, Sen. Bam tirelessly worked for the welfare of PWDs, with the passage of Republic Act 10754 that exempts PWDs from paying the value added tax (VAT).

The law also gives tax incentives to persons with PWD dependents tax incentives, up to fourth civil degree of consanguinity or affinity.