The Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (Philhealth) has expanded assistance for eligible members and dependents with chronic diseases, such as diabetes, to P20,000 in annual free medicines. 

Health Secretary Teodoro Hermosa announced the good news during the launch of Philhealth’s “Lunas na GAMOT Yakap sa Bawat Pilipino” to expand Universal Health Care Coverage, wherein GAMOT stands for Guaranteed and Accessible Medications for Outpatient Treatment.

GAMOT is a "program which seeks to provide free essential maintenance and acute medicines to its members, particularly aimed at strengthening primary care at the grassroots level."

It is a key component of the enhanced YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Program) that offers free medicines annually for eligible outpatient needs worth P20,000. 

Herbosa said the expanded medical assistance to beneficiaries stems from an increase in Philhealth funds from P120 billion in 2025 to P320 billion in 2026.

With the said funds, private hospitals have accepted more patients as it is currently easier to collect payment from Philhealth under the leadership of Dr. Edwin Mercado, Philhealth president and chief executive officer. 

The agency has also forged strong partnerships with accredited hospitals and pharmacies for the immediate supply of cheaper medicines for ailments within the health care coverage.

During the program's launch at the Cebu Provincial Capitol Social Hall on February 17, 2026, a simulation or process of the services to beneficiaries was demonstrated.

Governor Pamela Baricuatro along with mayors of Local Government Units in Cebu have welcomed and embraced the initiative.