PhilHealth contributed 9 billion pesos in idle funds to the expansion of non-tax revenues in 2023.
As a result, the government now aims to maximize this contribution by using these funds, along with those from GSIS and SSS, for infrastructure projects.
In a palace briefing, National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Secretary Arsenio Balisacan assured that these projects have already been programmed for implementation this year.
“I don’t have the details where those funds have actually been used, but broadly yes [they were used in infrastructure projects and they were] meant to address the need for funding for those projects that have been identified, and programmed for implementation within the year,” said Sec. Arsenio Balisacan, NEDA.
Secretary Balisacan emphasized that all projects and fund allocations underwent thorough review by economic managers, implementing agencies, and Congress.
He also underscored that government funds should always be directed toward productive and beneficial projects that contribute to national development.
“We look at the medium term, we look at the short term. Because we can’t have, for example, focus all our, put all our baskets in the near term. Because we also need to grow so that we could sustain the progress that we have made in the near term,” he said,” Balisacan added.
In response to criticism about using funds from health-related agencies for infrastructure projects, Balisacan clarified that the government has adopted a long-term perspective on public spending.
He added that infrastructure development, combined with investments in human capital, such as health and education, is vital for sustained long-term growth.
This approach reflects a balanced strategy in addressing both short-term needs and long-term goals for national development.
