Formalizing its commitment to accessible healthcare, Saint Louis University (SLU), through the SLU Sacred Heart Medical Center (SHMC), strengthened its partnership with the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on 18 September 2026.
In line with SHMC’s reinforcement of financial protection through the No Co-payment/No Balance Billing (NBB) Policy, SLU President, Rev. Fr. Gilbert B. Sales, CICM, PhD and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Beverly Lorraine C. Ho signed the said MOA at the Fr. Theophile Verbist Hall, Medical Arts Parking Building, SLU Sacred Heart Medical Center.
The ceremonial signing was witnessed by PhilHealth CAR – Regional Vice President, Dr. Dominga A. Gadgad; PhilHealth – CAR Medical Specialist IV, AQAS Head, Dr. Frances Claire O. Celino, RMT, MPH; SLU SHMC Medical Center Chief, Dr. Paul Adlai B. Quitiquit; SHMC Medical Director, Dr. Jason Roy M. Bacani; SLU Vice President for Finance, Roberto M. Arguelles, PhD; and SLU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Felina P. Espique, PhD.
The MOA aims to fortify SLU SHMC’s pursuit of competent administration— reflected in its adherence to the NBB nationwide policy under the unified strategic framework with the Department of Health (DOH). This initiative is a health insurance policy that financially aids PhilHealth members confined in basic or ward accommodation of private hospitals accredited by PhilHealth. Eligible patients are no longer charged with additional fees or expenses for medical services meeting the minimum standards of care.
In his remarks, Fr. Sales expressed his gratitude to PhilHealth for the shared commitment to service and well-being of the people as he mentioned, “One of the things we truly take pride in as Louisians, and as members of the Saint Louis University community, is our commitment to a mission that extends beyond the walls of our classrooms and institution. We are called not only to educate and form individuals, but also to serve the wider community, to respond to the needs of our people, especially those who are most vulnerable— to turn our mirrors into windows.”
“This partnership with PhilHealth therefore brings together two institutions with a common responsibility: to put the welfare of our people at the center of what we do. Through stronger collaboration, clearer processes, effective monitoring, and shared accountability, we can make the promise of accessible and equitable healthcare a more tangible reality,” Fr. Sales added.
In response, Dr. Ho extended her appreciation to healthcare providers and proceeded with giving an overview of PhilHealth’s Strategic Outlook. “PhilHealth and DOH now share one agenda, and part of it is to provide financial risk protection to Filipino patients while also ensuring sustainability and predictability to keep the system going,” Dr. Ho said. She also expressed that PhilHealth members would not actually feel what PhilHealth is about if it were not for their service.
A networking lunch with the hospital heads of the CAR was also held, followed by an administrative dialogue in the afternoon. Dr. Ho addressed questions and concerns about PhilHealth’s technology roadmap, reclassification pathways, streamlining benefits package requirements, among others.
The partnership between SLU and PhilHealth aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-Being), 10 (Reduced Inequalities), and 17 (Partnership for the Goals), further reinforcing the shared purpose of delivering quality and compassionate healthcare services.
The MOA further highlights the dedication of SLU SHMC in serving the poor and marginalized with high-quality healthcare as it continues to strengthen its partnership with PhilHealth. (Article by Elaine Duque, UIO Intern | Photos by Randolf Bustalinio, UIO Intern)
