A proposed ordinance, when enacted, will establish a healthcare and insurance program for all government officials and employees of Baguio City, ensuring their access to quality medical services and financial protection in times of illness or medical emergency.
According to Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr., author of the proposal, while the Universal Health Care Act or Republic Act No. 11223 is in place, this measure supplements it by ensuring city officials and employees get direct and comprehensive local coverage.
The program includes maintenance and life insurance, specifically annual physical examination, outpatient services, pre-natal and post-natal care, emergency care services (both outpatient and inpatient), hospitalization or inpatient services, pre-existing and critical illnesses, dental coverage, and life insurance. The coverage takes effect upon the issuance of the insurance policy.
The program will be funded annually through the budget of the Human Resource Management Office (HRMO) or any available city funds.
To ensure proper implementation, the CRHMO will coordinate with the Local Finance Committee and the city government’s employee representatives to craft the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) within 90 days from the approval of the ordinance. The IRR will spell out the mechanisms for selecting service providers and managing claims. It will also ensure accountability and define any exclusions in coverage.
The proposed ordinance was approved on first reading by the Baguio City Council on August 4, 2025 and was referred to the Committee on Appropriations and Finance Cluster A for review. **Jordan G. Habbiling
