LEGAZPI CITY--- The PhilHealth Regional Office V, through the Membership Section, conducted an empowerment forum for Overseas Filipino Workers and their families to better equip them with important information about their rights and benefits under the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP).

To date, PhilHealth's Overseas Filipinos Program has a total of 30,070 members with an estimated 27,850 dependents in the Bicol Region. The OFPs are automatically eligible for health benefits on the first day of membership activation, and the members and their dependents also enjoy outpatient benefits under the Primary Care Benefit Package 1 (PCB1). These are benefits that PRO V would like the attendees to understand better so they can maximize their PhilHealth membership.

In his message, Regional Vice President Orlando D. Iñigo, Jr. referred to the OFWs as the modern-day heroes, bringing Filipino workmanship and talents globally. He mentioned the important role of the sector in the financial stability of the country, as they help maintain the dollar reserves. He shared with the attendees some insights about globalization, as opposed to the old adage that "no man is an island." He mentioned the Latin "Ultra Plus" in referring to the places that the OFWs reach, exploring what is further beyond our islands. He assured the members that they are important to PhilHealth, thus the Forum is PhilHealth’s tribute to the OFWs and their families.

It was a mix of fun and learning as close to 50 attendees from Albay were entertained by PhilHealth's homegrown talents: the PhilHealth Band, and PhilHealth MemSec Dancers. The attendees joined the games and were eager for the prizes. Some even sang with the band.

OWWA Officer-in-charge Teresita R. Bantinan mentioned the importance of PhilHealth and OWWA citing that OWWA used to handle Medicare for the OFWs until it was transferred to PhilHealth so their agency can focus on the other important aspects for the welfare of the OFWs.

The activity concluded with positive feedback from the attendees, some even urging the PRO to conduct a similar forum in the other provinces so that more OFWs and their families can be empowered with the information about their PhilHealth membership. (END)