Seafarer's Benefit

 The proposed 100% increase to the compulsory contribution of OFW for Philhealth becomes viral on social media as of today. The increase also affects local employees who are member to the said medical insurance.

I have never been to any lectures or seminars with regards to the policy of Philhealth. My knowledge is limited to the fact that I am a member and that my company is paying for that.

Photo courtesy of Facebook OFWVOICE page

I was obliged to visit the Philhealth office in Iloilo for my company urged me to get my lifetime membership card and number so they can send the contribution directly to Philhealth and not on the SSS number as being done currently.

I live far from the city all-in-all about 2.5-3 hrs driving (commuting) so I woke up early. I brought my wife with me for she knew the city well than I do.

The waiting time to get my transaction number was easy, but the time I was called for business bugs me. The early preparation going to the city made me sleepy.

My number was finally flashed in the monitors finally after countless yawns. I gave the form which my company gave me from the office and I told her that I didn’t have my card yet. I also asked her if I could include my mom as a beneficiary. She said it’s possible if she is a senior citizen and if I have her ID with me which I didn’t have.

She reminded me however to pay my dues in times when I am on vacation for the company is not paying when I’m on leave, failure to do so may cause forfeiture of my benefits from the insurance given three months max of non payment.

Three months, I suddenly remember my AMOSUP membership benefits. Like Philhealth I am not entitled of their coverage after three months of leave. Does this mean I have to schedule when will I or my beneficiaries get sick?

Maybe for some OFW this is not a problem given the fact that their vacation leave does not extend up to three months. In our case (seafarers) it sometimes reaches far beyond three months. We are at the mercy of our manning agencies.

It’s good that the clerk advised me to pay in behalf of my employer in times when I am on leave. For the AMOSUP no chance, unless you have friends working inside. Another difference is in PHILHEALTH P2400 for the entire year and for the AMOSUP its 23USD per month. In fairness to the latter they cover more privileges.

Recently one House Representative withdrew her authored bill proposing an increase to OWWA contribution after a successful facebook campaign. I also shared the photo as my agreement to the sentiment.

And now another campaign is flooding my facebook wall with regards to this 100% increase on the Philhealth contribution. This time I did not share because for me it was a fair proposal. A roughly P7.00 a day for medical insurance is reasonable enough.

I put my hands down in regards to medical issue. I understand how expensive this days to be hospitalized. As what the famous tag line of a multi vitamins brand “bawal magkasakit”. I believe that it is our individual responsibility to update our medical insurance due. That amount contributed could not even cover a day stay in the hospital, but the Philhealth in returns covers more than our annual contribution.

Photo courtesy of Facebook OFWVOICE page

Most of the proponents of the campaign cited the inutile management of the Philhealth, that up to now about 10000 back log of records. Paying members was not afforded by their rights for the name of their beneficiary was not on the system. I raged with them on this. I also despise the long queue upon processing, the unwelcoming aura of some employees working under the Philhealth umbrella and the long list of requirements prior availing of the insurance.

But all that was nothing compared to the aid this insurance company is covering, a little sacrifice to say. And by the way this is the type of benefits I would be happy if not used. Means my family and myself is healthy. Health is wealth though.

To the people working on this insurance company be prompt in attending to the needs of your members, we deserved it, it is your duty.

 To fellow members lets pay early and declare our dependents accurately, it is our duty.