By Joe-ann Gargar Solis Felisilda
BUTUAN CITY, Philippines (February 2026) — Marking its 31st anniversary and National Health Insurance Month, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) reported a significant milestone in Caraga, disbursing P5.28 billion in health facility claims in 2025 and processing 403,950 claims, reflecting strengthened healthcare access and improved service efficiency across the region.
The celebration featured a three-day YAKAP Caravan held February 11 to 13 at the Event Center of SM City Butuan, offering on-site member registration, record updates, free medical consultations, and medicine distribution. The observance is anchored on Proclamation No. 1400, signed in 2007 by then President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, declaring February as National Health Insurance Month to promote awareness and enrollment.
Caraga currently operates 145 YAKAP Clinics and five cancer screening providers, strategically distributed across Agusan del Norte (32), Surigao del Norte (34), Agusan del Sur (23), Surigao del Sur (30), and Dinagat Islands (6), expanding preventive and primary healthcare coverage throughout the region.
During a press conference spearheaded by Philippine Information Agency – Butuan, Regional Vice President Michael Jibson C. Hernandez emphasized that the data demonstrates the agency’s commitment to expanding benefit coverage and improving service delivery systems. Dr. Joel Arturo de Jesus, Chief of the Health Care Delivery Management Division, highlighted improved coordination with healthcare providers and enhanced claims processing efficiency, while Dr. Pinky B. Espelimbergo, Benefit and Administration Head, presented updates on member benefits and administrative procedures designed to make services more responsive and accessible.
As PhilHealth continues to strengthen partnerships and streamline operations, the anniversary milestone underscores its sustained role in advancing equitable healthcare access and public health development across Mindanao.
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