A proposed Senate measure seeks to establish a ₱10-billion Cancer Medicine and Treatment Assistance Fund to help cover the cost of cancer care for indigent Filipinos.

Filed under Senate Bill No. 1057 by Senator Jinggoy Estrada, the measure aims to subsidize expenses for cancer diagnostics, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgery, and maintenance medicines. The fund will be administered by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) through its accredited government hospitals in every congressional district to ensure patients can access assistance within their communities.

The proposed fund will prioritize indigent and underprivileged cancer patients identified by PhilHealth in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG).

To promote transparency and accountability, the bill mandates clear eligibility guidelines, a streamlined application process, and regular audits. It also provides for the annual allocation of funds through the national budget to ensure sustainability.

In a statement, Estrada said the high cost of cancer treatment continues to push many Filipino families into debt.

“This measure will ensure immediate assistance for patients and their families and give them hope for recovery by helping shoulder medical expenses,” he said, adding that access to cancer treatment should not depend on a person’s income.

The proposed fund, Estrada stressed, is intended to give every Filipino a fair chance at survival and recovery.