Complete Guide to Philhealth: Online Registration, Contribution & Benefits

Last Updated on – Jul 4, 2022 @ 9:41 am

All organizations today mandate working Filipinos to have their own PhilHealth accounts, but the painful process of traditional registration often hamper the urgency to apply.

The good news is, PhilHealth now allows Filipinos with no existing PhilHealth accounts to enjoy its benefits by applying online.

Here’s a collection of everything you need to know—from the online registration process up to the benefits you’ll get once you contribute.

What is PhilHealth?

Also called as the National Health Insurance Program, PhilHealth was created in 1995 to make sure that Filipinos have an end-to-end access to quality health insurance coverage that is not only affordable but also efficient.

This serves as the primary means of helping Filipino citizens to pay for the cure and care of their illnesses, particularly those who do not have immediate access to quality healthcare.

Its universal health insurance program includes a sustainable system of funds constitution, collection, management, and disbursement for funding the purchase of basic minimum package.

It also includes supplementary packages of health insurance benefits by the growing population.

Total Number of PhilHealth Claims Paid from Jan 2020 – June 2020:

Why Do You Need PhilHealth?

The benefits of enrolling in PhilHealth encompasses inpatients and outpatients, senior citizens, dual citizens and foreigners, premature and small newborns, and pregnant women.

But it’s more than that—being a PhilHealth contributor allows you to enjoy special benefits paid to the accredited Health Care Institution through all case rates.

These rates are inclusive of hospital charges and professional fees for the attending physician, as well as day procedures, radiotherapy, hemodialysis, and outpatient blood transfusion.

Among the primary care benefits that PhilHealth covers include consultations, diagnostic examinations, and medicines for the cure of certain infections like Urinary Tract Infection (UTI).

Related: Top Life Insurance Companies & Plans in the Philippines

How To Maximize Your PhilHealth Benefits?

To maximize your PhilHealth contributions, you need to be more aware of its coverage and its limitations.

Taking for example, an expectant mother. Moms who are excited about giving birth to their little bundle of joy should start thinking about the costs that come with childbirth.

Women giving birth need to shell out anywhere between P5,000 and P100,000, depending on where they want to deliver the baby. Caesarian delivery adds more to the total costs, which means that a lot of preparation in terms of budget is needed.

This does not include prenatal needs such as supplements, vaccinations, regular ob-gyne check-ups, and ultrasound scans.

PhilHealth members with a monthly regular contribution can enjoy maternity benefits encompassing all that’s stated above. However, there are certain limitations to the coverage:

• Pregnancy below age 19
• First pregnancy at age 35 and older
• Multiple births such as twins and triplets
• Abnormalities of the ovaries, uterus, or placenta
• History of three miscarriages or abortions
• History of one stillbirth
• History of serious medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, moderate to severe asthma, etc.

Types Of PhilHealth Members?

Membership is automatic for employed citizens, but PhilHealth also opens its membership to the following:

1. Employed/ members of the formal economy

All employees with offices in the Philippines. This includes seafarers and household helpers, since their agencies are based in the country.

Premium range: Php 200-875/month

2. Individually paying or self-employed, voluntary, or members of the informal economy

All unemployed or self-employed employees. This includes professionals or business owners, as well as retirees and farmers.

Premium range: Php 600/ quarter and Php 900/quarter for those earning more than Php 25,000 a month

3. Overseas workers (OFWs)

All OFWs who passed through POEA and pay their OEC fees

Premium: Php 2,400/year

4. Sponsored

All members working for a non-profit organization

Premium: Sponsor pays Php 2,400/year

5. Indigent

All members with no source of income, or those without a stable household income

Membership is pre-determined by the DSWD

6. Lifetime

Members who were able to pay at least 120 monthly premiums. Membership becomes free as soon as they reach 60 years old.

7. Senior Citizens

Filipino citizens who are already 60 or above but have never been a PhilHealth member. This also includes senior citizens who were not able to pay 120 premiums for the duration of their membership.

How To Become A PhilHealth Member?

Becoming a PhilHealth member requires compliance to the following:

1. Fill-out two (2) copies of the PhilHealth Member Registration Form [PMRF]
2. Submit PMRF to the nearest Local Health Insurance Office (LHIO) together with the following documents:

• Two (2) 1×1 latest ID picture
• Two (2) valid IDs
• Any of the following documents:
  • For SSS pensioners
    • Photocopy of Death, Disability and Retirement (DDR) indicating the date of retirement and effectivity date of pension
    • Photocopy of the Retiree/Pensioner Certification indicating the effectivity date of retirement
  • For GSIS pensioners
    • Photocopy of Certification/Letter of Approval of Retirement indicating the effectivity date of retirement
    • Photocopy of Service Record issued by the employer showing rendered services of not less than 120 months
    • Photocopy of Certification/Retirement Gratuity from the employer indicating services of not less than 120 months
    • Photocopy of retirement voucher issued by GSIS
  • For Uniformed personnel of AFP, PNP, BJMP and BFP
    • Photocopy of General/Special or Bureau Order indicating effectivity date of retirement
    • Photocopy of Certification/Letter of Approval of Retirement from the GSIS indicating services of not less than 120 months
    • Photocopy of Statement of Services issued by previous employer showing service of not less than 120 months
  • GSIS Disability Pensioner / SSS Permanent Total Disability Pensioner before March 4, 1995
    • Photocopy of Death, Disability and Retirement (DDR) indicating the date of retirement and effectivity date of pension
    • Photocopy of Disability Pensioner Certification issued by SSS/GSIS indicating effectivity date of pension or the period of coverage for disabled pensioner.
  • SSS Survivorship Pensioner before March 4, 1995
    • Photocopy of Death, Disability and Retirement indicating the type of survivorship in nature and the effectivity date of pension
    • Photocopy of Survivorship Pensioner Certification indicating the effectivity date of pension
  • Other individuals who are not under the abovementioned categories
    • Photocopy of official receipts of premium payments to PhilHealth
    • Any other documents indicating the months of premium payments to PhilHealth

3. Await Member Data Record (MDR) and PhilHealth ID Card

How to Apply for PhilHealth Online?

PhilHealth now makes it easier for aspiring members to apply online. Here’s how:

Step 1: Visit PhilHealth website and click the Online Services link.

You can also visit Philhealth Electronic Registration System at https://eregister.philhealth.gov.ph

Step 2: Click the Register link in the Electronic Registration section under Membership.

A new window will pop up.

Step 3: Once you reached the PhilHealth Electronic Registration System page, click Proceed.

Read the terms and conditions. Once done, tick the checkbox to confirm that you understood the terms.

After that, click Accept.

Step 4: Fill out the PhilHealth online application form

And make sure all these items are filled out:

• Personal Information
• Contact Details
• Address
• Dependents Information
• Guardian Information
• Membership Category Information
• Upload Documents (optional)

Note: Single individuals may list the name of their parents who are aged 60 years or older as dependents. Married individuals may list their spouse and their children.

Step 5: Upload supporting documents

Documents such as birth certificate, passport or driver’s license. Scan these documents and save as JPEG, PNG, GIF or PDF, then upload one by one.

Step 6: Review all information before proceeding.

For verification and security purposes, enter the Captcha code. Refresh if not legible.

Step 7: Tick the checkbox to confirm that all information entered are correct and accurate.

After this, click Submit Registration.

Step 8: Wait for the confirmation e-mail upon completion of the registration.

Your PhilHealth number will also be sent to you.

How to Register as a Voluntary Member?

Self-employed or citizens with businesses may acquire membership in the insurance program through the following steps:

1. Visit the nearest PhilHealth branch in your area.

2. Ask for two (2) PhilHealth Member Registration Forms and fill out all necessary details.

This form is also downloadable in the website.

3. Submit the form along with the following requirements:

• One (1) photocopy of NSO-issued Birth Certificate
• Valid identification cards (TIN ID, driver’s license, passport, or any document providing your or the applicant’s identity)
• Foreigners should submit one (1) photocopy of the Alien Certificate of Registration

4. Once completed, wait until the PhilHealth number is released by the authorized officer.

5. Pay for the designated contribution for voluntary member

Related: Best HMO for Freelancers & Self-Employed in the Philippines

What to do if you forget your Philhealth Number?

There are three ways to access your PhilHealth number:

1. Text 0917-5129149 or send an e-mail to PhilHealth to ofp@philhealth.gov.ph.

Include the following details in this format:

• LAST NAME
• FIRST NAME
• MIDDLE NAME
• BIRTHDAY

2. Contact PhilHealth branches near you or the head office. You can also visit PhilHealth Express sites at:

• Robinsons Manila
• LRT North Mall, Caloocan
• Robinsons Otis
• Robinsons Malabon
• Lucky Chinatown, Binondo, Manila

Head office is located at Citystate Centre, 709 Shaw Blvd. 1603 Pasig City.

3. Check with your previous employer if they still have your PhilHealth records.

How to Get your PhilHealth Card?

PhilHealth Insurance ID Cards are granted to both the formal economy and informal sector. You may claim it for P90 at any PhilHealth office.

But if you wish to declare a dependent for your ID card, you need to go to any Bayad Center outlet and pay P358. Two (2) valid IDs of your dependent are required to proceed.

What Are Other Benefits of Having A PhilHealth ID?

Having your own PhilHealth Insurance ID Card guarantees you:

• 15% discount on generic drugs on Watson’s, Rose Pharmacy, South Star Drug, and The Generics Pharmacy
• 20% to 80% discount on flu vaccines on PQ Health Shield and GSK
• Free eye exam from Vivian Sarabia Optical
• 20% discount on regular items in Vivian Sarabia Optical
• 10% discount on drug testing services at JNW Drug Testing sites

PhilHealth Contribution Table [2021]

The Philippine Circular No. 2020-0005: Premium Contribution Schedule in the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) Pursuant to RA 11223 — known as The Universal Health Care Act – Revision 1, was signed in February 2020. 

It provides the key guidelines, objective and rationale of the contribution. It includes the updated Philhealth Premium Contribution Table showing the planned changes in the rates and premiums in the upcoming years.

Contribution changes:

• Lowest combined Employee and Employer contribution: Php350
• Highest combined Employee and Employer contribution: Php2,450

Note: A directive from the Office of the President defers the adjustment in premiums in consideration of the ongoing pandemic. Philhealth will keep collecting the same 3% rate (instead of 3.5%) and maximum of P60,000 (instead of P70,000) until Congress is able to pass a new law allowing the deferment of the scheduled premium adjustment in the Universal Health Care Act of 2019. Philhealth will proceed with the scheduled adjustments should no new legislation is passed for this reason.

How to Monitor your Philhealth Contributions?

There are two ways to check your PhilHealth contributions:

1. Via website

• Visit the PhilHealth website
• Log in to the Member Inquiry facility by entering your PIN and password (check activation sent to your email)
• Answer the security question briefly
• The Member Static Information page will appear. Click on Premium Contributions below the table that shows your personal details.

2. Via phone call

PhilHealth has an Interactive Voice Response System, a 24/7 landline-based service that accommodates all member inquiries regarding contribution status, membership, benefits and other related concerns. Just dial (02) 441-7442 and follow the instructions from the voice prompt.

Who are qualified as PhilHealth dependents?

The following people can be registered as a PhilHealth dependent:

• Legitimate spouse (non-member)
• Child or Children (legitimate, legitimated, acknowledged and illegitimate)
• Child or Children (adopted or stepchild or stepchildren below 21 years of agethat are unmarried and unemployed
• Children (21) years old or above but suffering from congenital disability, either physical or mental, or any disability acquired that renders them totally dependent on the member for support, as determined by the Corporation;
• Foster child as defined in Republic Act 10165 otherwise known as the Foster Care Act of 2012;
• Parents who are (60) years old or above (non-member), whose monthly income is below an amount to be determined by PhilHealth in accordance with the guiding principles set forth in the NHI Act of 2013
• Parents with a permanent disability regardless of age as determined by PhilHealth, that renders them 100% dependent on the member for support.

How do I claim PhilHealth benefits?

Before you can begin claiming your PhilHealth benefits, you have to meet the following conditions.

Per the Sufficient Regularity of Payment (SRP) rule mentioned in PhilHealth Circular No. 2017-0021:

• You should have been able to make 6 months worth of contributions preceding the 3 months qualifying contributions within the 12-month period prior to the first day of confinement.

This means that to be eligible to claim PhilHealth benefits, you should have paid at least 9 months worth of premiums within the 12 months preceding the confinement (including the period of confinement).

• Claims should be made within 45 days of obtaining room and board.

Here are the steps for claiming your PhilHealth benefits:

Prepare and complete all the necessary documents for filing a claim. You can get copies from the hospital or download the appropriate forms from the Philhealth website.

1. Member Data Record Form (MDR)
2. PhilHealth claim form 1 (original copy)
3. Certificate of payments (with OR numbers)
4. PhilHealth ID and another valid ID

Can I update my PhilHealth MDR online?

Having your PhilHealth information regularly updated is a good thing as it allows you to transact and claim for benefits without unnecessary headaches. And as you’ve seen above, the Member Data Record (MDR) is one of the primary items needed to make a successful claim.

Here’s the fastest way to update your MDR:

1. Visit the Philhealth website. Download a copy of the Philhealth Member Registration Form (PMRF). Here’s a link to the actual item
2. Tick the box on the upper right hand of the page that says, “For Updating” (so they’ll know you’re not a new enrollee)
3. Complete all required information on the form and double check for accuracy.
4. Download a copy of the completed form and attach it to an email. Send the email to ofp@philhealth.gov.ph
5. You’ll receive a confirmation that you’re MDR has been updated via email so make sure to check your inbox. (Pro tip: Check your SPAM folder as it can get routed there)

Other PhilHealth Frequently Asked Questions [FAQs]:

Here are some of the most common questions that get asked regarding PhilHealth.

Does PhilHealth membership expire?

Technically, yes, it does. If you haven’t made the required contributions within a specified amount of time, you won’t be entitled to claim benefits when you need it.

And as we’ve mentioned earlier on the “How to claim PhilHealth benefits” section, PhilHealth circular No. 2017-0021 states that you should have at least paid 9 months worth of premiums within the 12 months preceding confinement.

Can parents be dependents for PhilHealth?

Yes, but only if the parent(s) is deemed as permanently disabled and completely dependent on the PhilHealth member.

The National Health Insurance Act of 2013 states that “Parents with a permanent disability, regardless of age as determined by the Corporation that renders them totally dependent on the member for subsistence.” can be legally declared as a dependent.”

What are the PhilHealth Contribution Payment Deadlines?

Payment deadlines are based on the last digit of the PhilHealth employer number:

• 0 to 4: 11th to 15th day of the month
• 5 to 9: 16th to 20th day of the month

How can I pay for PhilHealth contributions?

Assuming you make voluntary contributions (not from formal economy segment), you can pay your premiums via the following outlets:

• Any branch of PagIBIG, SSS, or PhilHealth
• SM Bill payment counters
• CIS Bayad Center
• Post offices in Metro Manila
• BancNet’s Member Banks
• Bank of the Philippine Islands (via Bizlink)
• Citibank N.A. (via Citiconnect)
• 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)

How will I know my PhilHealth number?

Just dial (02) 441-7442 and follow the instructions from the voice prompt.

Before you make a call, get your PhilHealth Identification Number (PIN) ready, as this will be required to access your records.

You can find it on your PhilHealth ID card. 

How can I check my Philhealth contributions?

The most efficient way of verifying your PhilHealth contributions is via the My PhilHealth Portal.

You have to know your PIN beforehand though as it will be required during registration (so you can access their Member Inquiry page).

For folks who need to know their PhilHealth PIN, you can try reaching PhilHealth to inquire via the following ways:

Textline: 0917-898-7442 (PHIC)
PhilHealth Trunkline: (02) 441-7444
PhilHealth Hotline Call Center: (02) 441-7442
Email: actioncenter@philhealth.gov.ph
Official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/PhilHealthofficial/

Perhaps it will be best though if you can visit the nearest PhilHealth branch or satellite office in your area so you can inquire about your PIN and your contribution history.

How can I change my PhilHealth status?

Here are the documents required for changing your status in PhilHealth’s records. Present this at any nearest branch. You will be asked to complete a new Membership form. A new PhilHealth ID will be issued upon updating of your civil status.

• If Married- Original or Certified true copy of Marriage Contract/Certificate
• If Widowed – Original/Certified true copy of Death Certificate of spouse OR

Judicial Declaration of Presumptive Death

• If Annulled – Original or Certified true copy of Annulment Papers

Philhealth Branches 

If you want to get in touch with PhilHealth personnel, you may go directly to PhilHealth branches regional branches:

PRO I – Dagupan

Regional Office

Address: EMDC Bldg., Sec. Francisco Q. Duque, Jr. Road, Tapuac District, 
Dagupan City, Pangasinan
Phone: (075) 515-3333; (075) 5229691 (fax)
Email: region1@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO II – Tuguegarao

Regional Office

Address: The Builder’s Place, Del Rosario Street, Tuguegarao City 3500
Phone: (078) 255-1342; 255-1341; 255-1340; 255-1338
Email: info.pro2@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO CAR – Baguio

Regional Office

Address: SNOBT Inc. Bulding, No. 19 Leonard Wood Road Baguio City 2600
Phone: (074) 444-5345; 444-8361; 444-9862
Email: car@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO III-A – San Fernando

Regional Office

Address: G/F PhilHealth Bldg., Lazatin Blvd., San Agustin,
San Fernando City, Pampanga C-2000
Phone: (045) 961-1977; (045) 961-3949 loc. 4330

PRO III-B – Malolos

Regional Office

Address: The Cabanas Mall of Malolos 2nd and 3rd floors N4 Bldg.
Km. 44/45 MacArthur Highway Longos, Malolos City, Bulacan
Phone: (044) 796-1559; (044) 796-1560 loc. 4400

PRO NCR

Regional Office

Address: VCP Building, Block 56, Lot 11, 68 Kalayaan Avenue
Teacher’s Village West, Quezon City
Phone: (02) 441-5673

PRO NCR North – Manila

Branch Office

Address: 10th Commandment Building, Rizal Avenue, Caloocan City

PRO NCR Central – Quezon City

Branch Office

Address: Corporate 145 Building, 145 Mother Ignacia, Barangay South Triangle, Quezon City

PRO NCR South – Pasig

Branch Office

Address: 12/F Citystate Centre Bldg., 709 Shaw Boulevard, Pasig City

PRO IV-A – Lucena

Regional Office

Address: Lucena Grand Central Terminal, Brgy. Ilayang Dupay, Lucena City
Phone: (042) 373-7554
Email: member.pro4a@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO IV-B – Batangas

Regional Office

Address: Caedo Commercial Center
Calicanto, Batangas City 4200
Email: region4b@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO V – Legazpi

Regional Office

Address: ANST III Building, Alternate Road, Legazpi City
Phone: (052) 481-5596

PRO VI – Iloilo

Regional Office

Address: Gaisano Capital Building, Luna Street, Lapaz, Iloilo City
Phone: (033) 501-9160 to 62 loc. 100/102; (0998) 959-9487
Email: region6@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO VII – Cebu

Regional Office

Address: Golden Peak Hotel & Suites,
Gorordo Ave. corner Escario St., Cebu City 6000
Phone: (032) 233-3270; 233-3289; 233-7407; 233-7523

PRO VIII – Tacloban

Regional Office

Address: PhilHealth Building 167 P. Burgos St. Tacloban City, Leyte
Phone: (053)325-3563; (053) 523-1195 (Fax)
Email: region8@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO IX – Zamboanga

Regional Office

Address: BGIDC Corporate Center, Gov. Lim Ave., Zamboanga City
Phone: (062) 992-2739 (fax)
Email: region9@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO X – Cagayan De Oro

Regional Office

Address: 4th Floor, Gateway Tower 2, Limketkai Center, Lapasan Highway, Cagayan de Oro City 9000
Email: region10@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO CARAGA – Butuan

Regional Office

Address: Lynzee’s Building, 766 J. Rosales Avenue, Butuan City
Phone: (085) 342-5747; (085) 342-5748; (085) 225-7026; (085) 816-0019
Email: caraga@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO XI – Davao

Regional Office

Address: Valgosons Building Bolton Extension, Poblacion, Davao City
Phone: (082) 295-2133 (PAU); (082) 282-2951 (PMAC); (0925) 7819987 (Local Healthline)
Email: info.pro11@philhealth.gov.ph and pau.pro11@gmail.com

PRO XII – Koronadal

Regional Office

Address: CSA I Building Cor. Zulueta Street, General Santos Drive, Koronadal City
Phone: (083) 228-9731 to 34 (fax); (083) 228-4733
Email: region12@philhealth.gov.ph

PRO ARMM – Marawi

Regional Office

Address: Noramis Building, Congressman Omar Dianalan Blvd.,
Lilod Saduc, Marawi City
Phone: (063) 876-0081, (0928) 507-1910; (0920) 937-2263
Email: pro.armm@philhealth.gov.ph and phic_armm@yahoo.com

You can also go to the various Local Health Insurance Offices. For the complete list of PhilHealth branches, please visit https://www.philhealth.gov.ph/about_us/map/regional.htm.