Law Summary

Purpose of the Act

• The primary objective of Republic Act No. 10645 is to ensure mandatory coverage of all senior citizens under the national health insurance program of PhilHealth.
• This Act amends Republic Act No. 7432, as amended by Republic Act No. 9994, known as the Expanded Senior Citizens Act of 2010.

Amendments to Section 5 of Republic Act No. 7432

• Amended Provision:

  • Section 5, sub-paragraph h(2) of Republic Act No. 7432 is revised to mandate PhilHealth coverage for all senior citizens.

• Key Definitions:

  • Senior Citizens: Individuals who are 60 years old and above as defined under existing laws.

• Important Requirements:

  • All senior citizens shall be enrolled in the national health insurance program of PhilHealth.
  • Funding for the mandatory coverage will come from the National Health Insurance Fund sourced from the proceeds of Republic Act No. 10351.

• Relevant Regulations:

  • The implementation will adhere to pertinent laws and regulations governing the PhilHealth program.

Repealing Clause

• Repeal of Inconsistent Laws:
  • All existing laws, decrees, executive orders, rules, and regulations that conflict with the provisions of this Act are repealed, amended, or modified accordingly.

Effectivity

• Timeframe:
  • The Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official Gazette or in at least two newspapers of general circulation.

Legislative Process

• The Act was passed as a consolidation of Senate Bill No. 712 and House Bill No. 4593 and was approved by both chambers of Congress on September 22, 2014, and September 24, 2014, respectively.

Approval

• The Act was approved by the President of the Philippines on November 5, 2014.

Key Takeaways

• Republic Act No. 10645 mandates PhilHealth coverage for all senior citizens in the Philippines.
• Funding for this initiative will be sourced from the National Health Insurance Fund.
• All conflicting laws are repealed to ensure compliance with this Act.
• The Act becomes effective fifteen days post-publication in the Official Gazette or newspapers.