Overseas Workers Program (OWP) Premium Mandatory Membership



The Philhealth Board had approved the new premium contributions for all membership categories to more accurate and sustainable levels, way back in 2011.

Based on current and expected benefit utilization and payments, the new rate for land-based Overseas Filipino Workers covered under the OWP was set to Php 2,400.00 a year in 2011, in anticipation of new benefits that were introduced in 2012 for all members. This premium amount equals that of the poorest of the poor which under the law must be the minimum of any premium contribution by any sector.

To provide members under this category enough time to adjust, premium increases were phased-in, with premiums pegged at Php 1,200.00 per year on 01 January 2012 followed by an increase to Php 2,400.00 per year supposedly on 01 January 2013 but was deferred to 01 January 2014 as a result of several dialogues with OFW groups and stakeholders.

For CY 2012, benefit payments to OWP members and their beneficiaries for confinements abroad and in local hospitals has reached 130.53% over premiums collected. PhilHealth has likewise increased its benefit package with the introduction of Z benefits (catastrophic packages) and the granting of primary care packages, simplified to case rate payments including no balance billing for the sponsored sector in government facilitates.

Philhealth commits to implement the National Health Insurance Program (NHIP) consistent with the law creating it, and uphold its principles of "social solidarity" and "compulsory coverage." Social solidarity means that everyone pitches in to care for the health of each and every Filipino. This is further strengthened by compulsory coverage that would address adverse selection. Together, these principles mandates the enrollment and membership of every citizen in order to attain the full benefits of Universal Health Care.

Good News!

Advance Payment

An OWP member may opt to pay his/her premium contribution for more than a year in CY 2013 at an annual premium contribution of Php 1,200.00.

OWP members may choose to either pay at least two (2) years in advance payment or the number of years as stipulated in the Contract of Work, but not exceeding five (5) years, at the current premium rate. After the validity period, however, the prevailing rates shall apply
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