Why is Philhealth the ONLY Government Entity Without an Online Payment Facility for Voluntary Members?

UPDATE: Philhealth now has an online payment system for self-paying individuals. 

2020 was the year where most businesses, institutions, and organizations have shifted to online or digital platforms. Online classes were implemented. E-commerce has taken a huge leap and the use of digital wallets such as GCASH, Paymaya, and other online payment facilities has never been this popular.

These initiatives and lifestyle changes took place as a response to the government's and health experts' call to stay at home and avoid unnecessary trips. So, this made me wonder Why is Philhealth the ONLY Government Entity Without an Online Payment Facility for Voluntary Members?

 

For weeks, I have been researching how I can pay my voluntary contribution to Philhealth without going out of the house, and sad to say, I had no luck finding one. We haven't gone out for over a year (literally!) and that's how serious we are about staying at home so, going to the nearest Philhealth office is not a good option for us. 

I was able to read about the Moneygment app but based on the latest update, it is currently available. 

According to Philhealth's website, they have several accredited service partners who accept online payment however, when we checked it seems that these are for corporate accounts/ employers as it has been asking for a corporate/ company code, corporate name, etc.  

• Bank of the Philippine Islands (via Bizlink)
• Citibank N.A. (Citidirect)
• Land Bank of the Philippines (via EPS)
• Security Bank Corporation (via Digibanker)
• Union Bank of the Philippines (via OneHUB)
• BancNet Inc.(via e-Gov facility)

Given that is attached to the Department of Health, do you think it should be one of the key agencies looking after our welfare and safety? 

Do you think they should be the first institution to offer these online services so that people so, that it is possible for people to follow their advice to stay at home?

For now, I still have no clue how and where I can pay my Philhealth contribution without leaving our house. If you know a way on how to make an online payment for Philhealth, please share it in the comments below. It would mean a lot to me. Thank you! :) 

Hope in a Box: Get your own limited edition merchandise from Davao's Top Fashion and Design Creatives and Artisans

by Jon J. Nuñez

When the health crisis hit the country almost a year ago, among the most affected are the communities of artisans in the different parts of Davao region. Most of these creative people are members of the lumads or ethnic tribes of Region XI. 

Unknown to many, the Davao Fashion and Design Council (DFDC) have been partnering with these artistic folks by way of commissioning their weavers, beaders, and sewers to create world-class creations that are a big hit around the country and even globally.  

Alas, the pandemic came, the fashion industry is among the first to be told to cancel events as it would entail the gathering of crowds-- such as fashion shows and exhibits. Thus, the Philippine Fashion Coalition (PFC) headed by Manila fashion directors, designers, models, and behind the scenes production staff, have been doing fundraising drives ever since last year. This time, through the partnership of DFDC, comes the Box of Hope. 

By supporting this project, we can help the displaced creatives and artisans of the fashion industry, especially the community of sewers, beaders, and weavers. For every purchase of Box of Hope, you help put food on the table for the family. A Box of Hope consists of a Kadayawan Bomber Jacket, 3 Kadayawan Masks, and a limited edition Araw Brooch for only Php 10,000. 

To order please send a private message to DFDC designers Edgar Buyan, Dodjie Batu, Emi Englis, or Benjie Panizales.

We would appreciate if you can share this post. Thank you for your support!