President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. visited the Alfonso Ponce Enrile Memorial District Hospital (APEMDH) on Saturday to inspect the implementation of the zero balance billing program — an initiative providing free hospitalization for patients in ward or basic accommodations.

Upon his arrival, President Marcos was warmly received by Cagayan Governor Edgar Aglipay, Gonzaga Mayor Rellie Simbe-Dalmaceda, and APEMDH Chief Dr. Rowena Sion.

The President toured the facility, including the ward section, where he personally engaged with patients, their families, and healthcare workers.

Afterwards, the President witnessed firsthand how the zero balance billing initiative is being implemented at the district hospital, which is fully supported by the provincial government.

The program ensures that no out-of-pocket expenses are required for eligible patients during confinement in government hospital wards.

During an earlier engagement at the Gonzaga People’s Gymnasium, where he led the distribution of assistance to typhoon-affected residents, President Marcos announced the reallocation of PhP29 billion in flood control funds to the Department of Health (DOH) to enhance healthcare infrastructure and services nationwide.

In the same speech, the President reiterated his directive to return the PhP60 billion in excess funds from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth)—originally transferred to the national treasury—back to the state health insurer to help sustain and expand the zero balance billing program.

“Gagamitin natin ‘yung PhP60 billion na ‘yun para paramihin pa ang ating mga health programs… Iyan ang magbabayad sa ating zero balance billing na libre na ang pagpunta sa ospital,” the President said.

The Chief Executive said that PhilHealth remains financially capable and committed to public service.

President Marcos also announced plans to expand the Medical Assistance for Indigent Patients (MAIP) program and to establish specialty wards in provincial hospitals across the country for cancer, heart disease, diabetes, and dialysis care, further decentralizing access to critical medical services.

APEMDH is a Level 1 district hospital located in Gonzaga, Cagayan with 25 bed capacity. It serves as a crucial healthcare hub for the municipalities of Gonzaga, Sta. Ana, Sta. Teresita, and portions of Buguey.

The hospital attends to an average of 210 patients daily and is supported by a dedicated workforce of 95 medical and non-medical personnel. | PND