UMVA has learned that private-sector employers are now required to facilitate worker registration for an enhanced primary care package, as announced by the Department of Labor and Employment.
This new directive, outlined in Labor Advisory No. 10, Series of 2026, designates the PhilHealth Yaman ng Kalusugan Program (YAKAP) as a primary care benefit, providing comprehensive outpatient services and chronic condition management for members and their dependents.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Labor Secretary Francis N. Tolentino has encouraged all private sector employers, including those in the informal economy, to support the registration process, which involves online registration through the eGov app or PhilHealth Member Portal, as well as coordination for onsite registration activities.
The directive, issued in accordance with the Universal Health Care Act and the Labor Code, requires employers to grant reasonable time off or excused absence to employees who will register in the PhilHealth YAKAP Program or avail of first-patient encounter and consultation services at YAKAP clinics.
Employers are expected to balance this requirement with existing company policies, while workers are expected to provide prior notice to their employers whenever practicable.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that regional labor offices have been directed to integrate YAKAP advocacy into standard labor inspections and technical advisory visits, to ensure compliance with the new directive.
These offices will also profile workers in the informal sector, including beneficiaries of certain government programs, to promote the importance of the healthcare program and monitor workplaces with low registration rates or limited use of first-contact consultation services.
The measure aims to ensure broader access to preventive care and reduce the risk of hospitalization through early detection and effective management of chronic conditions.
