P23.4 billion COVID-19 allowance claims still unpaid

MANILA, Philippines —  At least P23.4 billion is still needed to pay the allowance of health workers who served during the COVID pandemic, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

“Based on individually approved claims... fresh funds of P23.4 billion is needed to pay for 4.3 million claims,” the DOH reported on Tuesday night.

The department said it has received P91 billion from the Department of Budget and Management for the payment of public health emergency benefits and allowances as well as COVID sickness and death compensation  from July 1, 2021 to July 20, 2023 aside from special risk allowance and meals, accommodation and transportation benefits from Feb. 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021.

Centers for Health Development  are working with private and local government unit (LGU)-owned hospitals and health facilities for the completion of documentary requirements for workers to receive their benefits and allowances.

The law requires non-DOH facilities to execute a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the department before fund transfers can take place.

Commission on Audit Circular No. 2012-001 requires that no additional funds can be transferred unless those previously transferred are fully liquidated.

The DOH gave assurance that it would release the funds as soon as concerned private and LGU hospitals comply with the law that requires a MOA and liquidation.