ZAMBOANGA CITY – In celebration of Pride Month and as part of its commitment to inclusive health care delivery, the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) Regional Office IX officially rolled out the Konsultasyong Sulit at Tama (KonSulTa) program to the LGBTQIA+ community of Barangay Baliwasan on July 5, 2025.
This initiative marked a milestone in the region, as Barangay Baliwasan became the first barangay in Zamboanga City to pilot the KonSulTa program tailored specifically for LGBTQIA+ constituents. The event welcomed approximately 100 registered participants and offered a suite of services including on-site profiling and PhilHealth ID distribution, primary medical consultations, ECG testing, and the provision of essential medicines.
KonSulTa, PhilHealth’s flagship primary care program, promotes early diagnosis and preventive health care by making essential medical services more accessible. Through the program, registered members-including members of the LGBTQIA+ community-are entitled to free consultations, selected diagnostic tests, prescribed medications, and health education sessions. These benefits help ensure that health care remains equitable, responsive, and centered on the unique needs of every Filipino.
The success of the event was made possible through a strong partnership with the MUJER LGBT Organization, which provided free HIV screening and support services. MUJER’s involvement highlights the critical role of community-based advocacy in reaching historically underserved populations and promoting inclusive public health.
The activity was also made possible through the support of Barangay Baliwasan and the medical services rendered by Healthwell Medical Clinic, the designated KonSulTa Package Provider. Their coordination ensured the smooth delivery of services that directly addressed the needs of the LGBTQIA+ participants.
By anchoring outreach efforts in equity and compassion, PhilHealth continues to uphold its mandate to provide Universal Health Care (UHC) that is truly inclusive-regardless of gender identity, sexual orientation, or socioeconomic status. This effort supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s broader health agenda to make health care more accessible, preventive, and people-centered.
For more information about the KonSulTa Package, Zamboangueños may call (062) 992-2739 or email info.pro9@philhealth.gov.ph. (PR)
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