As the nation marks Breast Cancer Awareness Month this October, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) is ramping up its campaign for early detection while ensuring that Filipinos are financially protected through its expanded benefit packages—supporting President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s vision of accessible and improved healthcare for all.
Breast cancer remains one of the most pressing health concerns among Filipino women. Despite being among the top causes of cancer-related deaths, the Philippines has one of the lowest screening rates in Asia. A 2023 蝌蚪传媒 report revealed that only 1 percent—or roughly 540,000 out of 54 million Filipino women—have undergone cancer screening. This lack of early detection has led to around 65 percent of cases being diagnosed only at advanced stages, drastically lowering survival chances.
To address financial barriers that hinder timely diagnosis and treatment, PhilHealth has significantly enhanced its Z Benefit Package for Breast Cancer. The benefit ceiling was increased by 1,300 percent—from P100,000 to as much as P1.4 million—covering patients from Stage 0 to Stage 4, including those already in treatment. As of September 2025, PhilHealth has disbursed over P72 million through this package, signaling its commitment to help families shoulder the high cost of cancer care.
Under the PhilHealth YAKAP (Yaman ng Kalusugan Program), members can also avail of outpatient cancer screening tests, including mammograms worth P2,610 and breast ultrasounds worth P1,350. These services are designed to encourage women to undergo regular checkups and detect cancer at an early, more treatable stage. By covering both diagnostics and advanced therapy, PhilHealth aims to eliminate cost as a deterrent and improve overall health outcomes.
“Through PhilHealth YAKAP, we are making healthcare services more accessible and affordable,” said PhilHealth President and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado. “We encourage every woman not to delay her health—get screened, follow up, and pursue the right treatment. This is your right, and we are here to support you every step of the way.”
For more information about PhilHealth YAKAP and the Z Benefit Package for Breast Cancer, members may contact PhilHealth’s 24/7 hotlines at (02) 866-225-88 or via mobile at (Smart) 0998-857-2957, 0968-865-4670 and (Globe) 0917-127-5987, 0917-110-9812.
