SENATOR Joel Villanueva is pushing for a measure providing mandatory free health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage for faculty and non-teaching personnel in State Universities and Colleges (SUCs).

Under Senate Bill 1541, or the proposed Free Health Card for All SUC Personnel Act, Villanueva stressed that SUC personnel are essential to the country’s goal of delivering accessible, quality, and relevant higher education.

He said faculty and non-teaching staff contribute to instruction, research, extension services, and institutional operations that shape the country’s future workforce.

The measure builds on the State’s constitutional commitment to give the highest budgetary priority to education and ensure that teaching and school service careers attract and retain competent professionals through adequate support and job fulfillment.

Under the bill, each SUC’s Board of Regents will determine the specific form and terms of the HMO plan appropriate for its personnel.

The HMO coverage will be granted in addition to existing PhilHealth benefits and will not require prior approval from other agencies.

“Offering HMO coverage is a practical and meaningful way to support the welfare of SUC personnel. It promotes job satisfaction, health security, and peace of mind—making it possible for educators and staff to continue their service to students and the public without undue personal burden,” Villanueva said.