Marjuice Destinado
 
On September 22, 2024, Rep. Erwin Tulfo of the ACT-CIS party-list claimed that starting in January 2025, PhilHealth will provide its members with free prescription glasses, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs. But is there truth behind the promise, or is this just another headline-grabbing statement?


CLAIM: Rep. Erwin Tulfo of the ACT-CIS party-list claimed that starting in January 2025, PhilHealth will provide its members with free prescription glasses, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs.
 
RATING: TRUE
 
CONCLUSION: Official statements from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) confirm that the program will be implemented by January 2025.


The Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) is set to expand its coverage, offering members free prescription glasses, crutches, walkers, and wheelchairs starting in January 2025. This decision, announced by Rep. Erwin Tulfo on September 22, follows a request from House Speaker Martin Romualdez for enhanced support from PhilHealth officials.
 
Highlighting the pressing demand for mobility aids, Tulfo noted, “Wheelchairs are the most in demand, particularly for senior citizens and PWDs. But we didn’t stop there, we also requested [PhilHealth officials] to include eyeglasses, crutches and walkers.” 
 
The push for this program stems from multiple factors. Firstly, there has been a growing recognition of the challenges faced by PWDs in the Philippines, including limited mobility, stigma, discrimination, and unequal access to education and employment opportunities.
 
According to the Philippine Statistics Authority, only 36% of PWDs are employed, with many working in low-paying jobs. Structural barriers such as inaccessible public transportation and workplaces further hinder their ability to secure employment. Additionally, PWDs often incur extra expenses for assistive devices and personal assistance.
 
Moreover, House Speaker Martin Romualdez has been receiving numerous requests for financial aid to acquire wheelchairs and other mobility aids. This prompted him to advocate for PhilHealth to cover these essential items, aiming to alleviate the financial burden on indigent Filipinos.
 
Yet, while these announcements are commendable, they come with the caveat that implementation is key. House leaders have been urged to allow until January next year to finalize the program's mechanics.