[FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE]
MAG Calls for Audit of MAIFIP to Protect Universal Health Care
Tacloban, Leyte, Philippines — The Medical Action Group (MAG), a health and human rights organization, expressed serious concern over the ₱51 billion allocation for the Medical Assistance for Indigent and Financially Incapacitated Patients (MAIFIP) in the 2026 national budget. MAG warned that the program, in its current form, risks being shaped by political influence and favoritism, rather than serving as a genuine health safety net for the poor and marginalized.
MAG emphasized that MAIFIP has increasingly resembled a discretionary mechanism vulnerable to patronage and accommodation. Instead of guaranteeing equitable access, it risks undermining the very objectives of Universal Health Care (UHC). To safeguard fairness and integrity, MAG called for a full and independent audit by a third party body, with civil society participation, to ensure transparency, accountability, and a clear preferential option for the poor.
Dr. Juan Perez III, former MAG Co Chair and health policy expert, underscored the urgency of protecting public health financing from political interference and said that: “MAIFIP must be protected from political influence if it is to serve its intended purpose under Universal Health Care. Public health financing should be transparent, accountable, and strictly needs based, ensuring that assistance reaches the poorest and most vulnerable without discretion or political intervention.”
MAG further stressed that health assistance must be rights based, not politically mediated. The organization urged policymakers to align and integrate MAIFIP fully under the UHC law to avoid duplication and misuse. While welcoming the inclusion of an “anti epal” provision in the 2026 budget, MAG highlighted the need for clear implementing rules and strong enforcement mechanisms to prevent political exploitation.
To ensure sustainability and equity, MAG recommended that MAIFIP be phased out by 2028, with resources consolidated under UHC. This would guarantee that public health programs deliver transparent, equitable, and dignified access to services, free from political control.
“Health is a human right, not a political favor,” Dr. Perez added. “Public health programs must prioritize the poor and ensure that services are delivered fairly, transparently, and without political interference.”
Contact Person:
Ms. Edeliza P. Hernandez, RN
Executive Director
Email: mag.1982@magph.org
Tel: (+632) 454.7513
###END###