Assistance programs for cancer patients exist because the costs of treatment, along with the emotional toll, can be overwhelming. That said, there are many government offices and private institutions in the Philippines that offer a variety of cancer patient assistance programs designed to cater to different needs, including financial aid, healthcare services, and emotional support.
Cancer is a disease where abnormal cells in the body grow uncontrollably, potentially spreading to other parts of the body and disrupting normal bodily functions. This can lead to severe physical, emotional, and financial challenges for the patient, making it a life-altering condition.
These assistance programs ensure that the cancer patients in the country, regardless of their economic status, have access to the necessary treatments and support systems, improving their quality of life during their cancer journey.
Types of Cancer Patient Assistance Programs Available in the Philippines
In the Philippines, various government programs and non-government organizations offer a wide range of assistance to cancer patients. These services are available to help with medical treatments and provide necessary support to improve patients’ quality of life. Below is a categorization of the assistance offered:
- Medical Financial Assistance: Programs offering financial support to help cover medical expenses, including hospitalization, treatments, and medications for cancer patients.
- Healthcare Services: Initiatives providing access to healthcare facilities, screenings, diagnostics, and comprehensive medical treatments for various types of cancer.
- Social and Emotional Support: Services focused on offering emotional care, guidance, and community support to cancer patients and their families.
- Advocacy and Patient Rights: Efforts dedicated to promoting the rights and well-being of cancer patients, ensuring they receive adequate care and representation in the healthcare system.
- Specific Cancer Treatments: Programs providing targeted cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and specialized medications to improve patient outcomes.
These programs and organizations work collaboratively to support cancer patients, from providing financial aid for treatments to offering emotional support and advocacy for patient rights.
Government Programs
Malasakit Center – Medical Assistance
The Malasakit Center serves as a one-stop shop for medical and financial assistance, primarily targeting indigent patients in DOH-retained hospitals. It aims to streamline access to various government health services and financial aid for medical expenses. The centers facilitate the process of availing assistance by coordinating with multiple government agencies.
Purpose: To provide easier access to medical assistance for low-income patients.
Benefits:
- Assistance with hospital bills and medications.
- Up to Php 50,000.00 from the Presidential Social Fund (PSF).
- Additional support from other government agencies based on assessments.
- No cash assistance is provided; support is through guarantee letters.
PhilHealth (Philippine Health Insurance Corporation) – Z Benefit Package
The PhilHealth Z Benefit Package offers comprehensive coverage for high-cost medical conditions, including various cancers. Introduced in 2012, it aims to promote timely intervention and improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Recent enhancements have expanded coverage for breast cancer treatments. It requires going only to the selected contracted hospitals for the procedures from the start of the diagnosis to the end of the treatment to avail of the benefits.
Purpose: To reduce financial barriers and improve access to necessary cancer treatments.
Benefits:
- Acute Lymphocytic / Lymphoblastic Leukemia (standard risk) – P500,000
- Breast Cancer
- (Stage 0 to IV) – P1.4 million
- Prostate Cancer
- (low to intermediate risk) – P100,000
- Cervical Cancer:
- Chemoradiation with Cobalt and Brachytherapy (low dose) or Primary surgery for Stage IA1, IA2 – IIA1 – P120,000
- Chemoradiation with Linear Accelerator and Brachytherapy (high dose) – P175,000
- Colon Cancer
- Stage I-II (low risk) – P150,000
- Stage II (high risk) – III – P300,00
- Rectum Cancer
- Stage I (clinical and pathologic) – P150,000
- Pre-operative clinical stage I but with post-operative pathologic stage II-III
- using linear accelerator as mode of radiotherapy) – P400,000
- using cobalt as mode of radiotherapy – P320,000
- Clinical Stage II-III
- using linear accelerator as mode of radiotherapy) – P400,000
- using cobalt as mode of radiotherapy -P320,000
Note: The cash assistance under the Z benefit package is supposed to cover the following:
- hospital room and board fees
- laboratory exams
- medicines
- operating room fees, mandatory and other services
- professional fees
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) – Medical Access Program (MAP)
PCSO MAP provides financial aid to individuals facing health-related issues, particularly those unable to cover medical expenses. It partners with hospitals, health facilities, and pharmacies to ensure comprehensive support for beneficiaries. This PCSO program covers a wide range of medical needs and costs.
Purpose: To provide financial assistance for medical and hospitalization expenses.
Benefits:
- Coverage for hospitalization costs, chemotherapy drugs, and specialty medicines.
- Support for laboratory tests, medical devices, and rehabilitation therapy.
- Amount provided varies based on diagnosis and hospitalization needs.
Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office (PCSO) – Individual Medical Assistance Program (IMAP)
IMAP is a component of MAP that offers financial support for medical expenses using a patient classification system. It focuses on providing individual financial assistance for hospitalization and medical treatments, regardless of the applicant’s economic background. This PCSO program emphasizes timely assistance to ensure patients receive necessary care.
Purpose: To provide immediate financial assistance for medical and hospitalization expenses.
Benefits:
- Coverage for hospitalization and medical treatments.
- 100% coverage for patients in government hospital charity wards classified as “F.”
- 90% coverage in government hospital pay sections and up to 70% in private charity wards.
- Coverage for outpatient services and chemotherapy, with specific amounts based on medical requirements.
Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) – Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situation (AICS)
AICS provides diverse support to individuals and families in crisis, including financial assistance, food, and medical help. The program aims to address urgent needs and promote recovery from adverse conditions, with streamlined application processes to enhance accessibility. Assistance is available through local DSWD offices.
Purpose: To provide immediate support to those facing crises or severe economic difficulties.
Benefits:
- Medical assistance covering hospital bills and medications.
- Funeral assistance for burial expenses.
- Educational assistance for schooling needs.
- Transportation assistance for travel costs.
- Material assistance including non-food items and referrals for medical aid.
- Cash relief for emergencies like fire victims and stranded individuals.
Department of Health (DOH) – Cancer Support and Palliative Medicine Access Program (CSPMAP)
The CSPMAP of the DOH aims to provide access to free medicines not covered by PhilHealth, minimizing out-of-pocket expenses for cancer patients. It is part of the National Integrated Cancer Control Program and focuses on various priority cancer types. The program complements existing financial support mechanisms for cancer patients and survivors.
Purpose: To enhance access to cancer medicines and treatments.
Benefits:
- Free cancer medicines through accredited DOH cancer treatment facilities.
- Funding for cancer prevention, screening, diagnosis, and treatment.
- Support for care-related components for priority cancer types.
SSS (Social Security System) – Sickness Benefits
This SSS benefit provides daily cash allowances to qualified members who are unable to work due to illness or injury. Members must have exhausted all paid leave and made at least three monthly contributions within the last 12 months before the semester of sickness. A maximum of 120 days of sick leave can be claimed per calendar year.
Purpose: To support members financially during periods of illness or injury that prevent them from working.
Benefits:
- Daily cash allowance of 90% of the member’s average daily salary credit (ADSC).
- Benefit duration of up to 120 days per calendar year.
SSS (Social Security System) – Disability Claims
SSS also offers a disability benefit which provides a monthly pension or a lump sum payment to members who have become permanently disabled, either partially or fully. The SSS evaluates a range of disabilities and requires a medical assessment to determine eligibility. To qualify, a member must have made at least one monthly contribution before the semester of disability. After all, cancer patients are classified as persons with disability (PWD), so they can also apply for this benefit.
Purpose: To provide financial support to members who become permanently disabled and are unable to work.
Benefits:
- Monthly Pension: Varies based on contributions and average salary.
- Minimum Pension:
- PHP 1,000 for less than 10 credited years of service (CYS).
- PHP 1,200 for 10 or more CYS.
- PHP 2,400 for 20 or more CYS.
- Additional Benefits:
- PHP 500 monthly supplemental allowance.
- PHP 1,000 additional benefit since January 2017.
- 13th Month Pension paid every December to total disability pensioners and partial disability pensioners with at least 12 months of pension duration.
- Dependent’s Pension (for total disability): 10% of the member’s basic pension or PHP 250, whichever is higher, for up to five minor children.
- Lump sum payment for members with fewer contributions.
Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR) – Medical Assistance for Cancer Patients
PAGCOR provides medical assistance specifically for cancer patients through various programs associated with treatment. The assistance includes funding for medications, chemotherapy, and other necessary medical interventions. This initiative is part of PAGCOR’s commitment to support health services and improve the quality of life for patients battling cancer.
Purpose: To provide financial support for cancer patients in need of medical assistance.
Benefits:
- Coverage for chemotherapy and radiation therapy.
- Assistance with the purchase of necessary medications.
- Support for other medical needs as assessed by healthcare providers.
Office of the President – Medical Assistance
The Office of the President offers medical assistance programs aimed at providing financial support for patients with serious medical conditions, including cancer. This initiative is part of the government’s broader efforts to ensure that citizens receive the healthcare they need without facing financial hardship. The assistance is usually delivered through guarantee letters to hospitals.
Purpose: To provide immediate financial aid for medical expenses to patients in need.
Benefits:
- Financial assistance for hospital bills and treatments.
- Access to various healthcare services through government hospitals.
Office of the Vice President (OVP) – Medical Assistance
The Office of the Vice President provides assistance for cancer patients specifically for treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and brachytherapy. This program aims to ensure that patients have access to essential cancer treatments. The OVP collaborates with healthcare providers to facilitate the assistance process.
Purpose: To help cancer patients access necessary treatments.
Benefits:
- Financial support for chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and brachytherapy.
- Assistance is provided based on the patient’s medical needs and circumstances.
Public Assistance Center through the Senate of the Philippines – Online Medical Assistance
The Senate of the Philippines has established an online platform for constituents to request medical assistance from the following offices, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic;
- Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III
Senate Office: Rm. 606-609 & 1 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local no. 5548
Direct Line: (632) 822-9758
- Senator Vicente C. Sotto III
Senate Office: Rm. 603 & 24 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local nos. 6501 to 6505
Direct Lines: (632) 659-5259 (Admin)/ (632) 804-0270 (Legis)
- Senator Paolo Benigno Aquino IV
Senate Office: Rm. 510 & 5 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552 6601 local nos. 6512 / 8623
Direct Line: (632) 552-6747
- Senator Alan Peter “Compañero” S. Cayetano
Senate Office: Rm. 602 & 11 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local no. 5520
- Senator Leila De Lima
Senate Office: Rm. 502 & 16 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local nos. 5750 / (Rm. 16) 8619
Direct Lines: (Rm. 502) 807-8489 / (Rm. 16) 807-8580
- Senator Francis “Chiz” G. Escudero
Senate Office: Rm. 517 & 10 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local nos. 6537 / 6540 / 8610
Direct Line: (632) 833-5034
- Senator Emmanuel “Manny” D. Pacquiao
Senate Office: Rm. 526 & 6 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local nos. 5701-5702
Direct Lines: (632) 552-6686 / (632) 552-6685
- Senator Antonio “Sonny” F. Trillanes IV
Senate Office: Rm. 519 & 15 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local nos. 5666 / 5667
Direct Line: (632) 833-6257
- Senator Maria Lourdes “Nancy” S. Binay
Senate Office: Rm. 523 & 14 (New Wing 5/F)
GSIS Bldg., Financial Center, Roxas Blvd., Pasay City
Trunk Lines: (632) 552-6601 to 70 local no. 8616
Direct Line: (632) 502-9477
Note: Senator Nancy Binay only offers assistance to patients from ages 0-17 years old.
This initiative allows patients to submit their requests electronically, though they can also always reach out to the senators’ offices. The only thing to remember is that the submission of applications is only every Monday, from 8AM to 5PM, to ensure accessibility and efficiency in obtaining necessary medical aid. The program requires specific documentation to process requests as well.
Purpose: To provide accessible medical assistance to constituents in need.
Benefits:
- Online submission of medical assistance requests.
- Financial aid for hospital bills and medications.
- Required documentation includes a personal letter, medical certificate, and quotations for medical expenses.
House of Representatives – Medical Assistance Program
The House of Representatives offers various medical assistance programs for constituents facing health crises, including cancer patients. These programs are designed to provide financial support and facilitate access to necessary healthcare services. The assistance is typically coordinated through the offices of individual representatives.
Purpose: To support constituents with medical needs, especially those requiring cancer treatments.
Benefits:
- Financial assistance for medical expenses.
- Access to healthcare services through government hospitals.
- Assistance is provided based on individual assessments by representatives.
Philippine General Hospital (PGH) Cancer Institute (CI) – Alay Chemo sa CI
The Alay Chemo sa CI program at the PGH Cancer Institute provides subsidized chemotherapy treatments for indigent cancer patients (Class D) as identified by the Medical Social Services (MSS). This initiative aims to make chemotherapy more accessible and affordable for low-income patients. The assistance depends on the need and may be given as full or partial support for chemotherapy drugs. The financial support is only for chemotherapy, antibiotics, antiemetic, and other medicines needed by the patient while undergoing chemotherapy. The program is part of PGH’s commitment to improving cancer care and support for patients in need.
Purpose: To provide affordable chemotherapy treatments to cancer patients.
Benefits:
- Subsidized chemotherapy sessions for eligible indigent patients.
- Access to comprehensive cancer care services at PGH.
- Financial assistance based on the patient’s economic status and treatment needs.
Note: The PGH Cancer Institute administration office is open from Monday to Friday, 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Foundations and Other Institutions
Philippine Cancer Society, Inc. (PCSI)
The Philippine Cancer Society, Inc. (PCSI) is a non-profit organization established in 1956, dedicated to helping Filipinos prevent and manage cancer. It offers a range of services, including medical assistance, cancer control lectures, and patient navigation, aimed at reducing cancer incidence and mortality, especially among disadvantaged communities.
Purpose: To prevent cancer and reduce cancer-related deaths through education, advocacy, and focused services.
Benefits and Services:
- Medical Assistance
- Cancer Screening
- Educational lectures
- Patient Navigation
Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO)
The Philippine Alliance of Patient Organizations (PAPO) is a coalition of various patient groups advocating for better healthcare and patient rights in the Philippines. PAPO works to amplify the voice of patients in the healthcare system, ensuring that their needs and concerns are addressed by policymakers and service providers.
Purpose: To promote patient rights and improve healthcare services for all patients in the Philippines.
Benefits and Services:
- Advocacy, patient support, and health policy consultation.
ICanServe Foundation – Kapatiran Para Sa Kanser (Partnership with Detoxicare)
The Kapatiran Para Sa Kanser program is a partnership between ICanServe Foundation and Detoxicare, providing free cancer medications to qualified breast cancer patients in the Philippines. The program prioritizes indigent patients and those from the middle class who have depleted their funds.
Purpose: To provide free cancer medications to breast cancer patients who are financially disadvantaged.
Benefits and Services:
- Free cancer medications: Anastrozole, Letrozole, Docetaxel (20 and 80 mg)
- Priority for indigent and middle-class patients
Contact Information: Submit requirements to info@icanservefoundation.org.
Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc.
The Philippine Foundation for Breast Care, Inc. operates the Breast Care Center at East Avenue Medical Center in Quezon City, offering clinical breast examinations, consultations, and mammography services. The foundation provides support to breast cancer patients, particularly those from low-income backgrounds.
Purpose: To offer medical services and support to breast cancer patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Clinical breast examinations
- Mammography (P750.00)
Contact Information:
- Phone: +632 8927 3492
- Mobile: 0917 867 7624
- Email: pfbci2001@yahoo.com
Redemptorist Church (Baclaran)
The Social Services Office of the Redemptorist Church in Baclaran provides financial assistance to indigent patients, helping them meet their medical needs.
Purpose: To provide financial assistance to indigent patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Financial assistance for medical needs.
Contact Information: Call +632 8832 1150.
Soroptimist International of Ortigas and Environs
Soroptimist International of Ortigas and Environs offers free chemotherapy and hormonal therapy (Tamoxifen) for indigent breast cancer patients in Stage 1 and Stage 2. The program supports patients within and outside the National Capital Region.
Purpose: To provide free cancer treatment to indigent breast cancer patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Free chemotherapy up to 6 cycles
- Hormonal therapy (Tamoxifen)
Contact Information: Submit documents to doble.enriqueta@gmail.com.
Tzu Chi Foundation
The Tzu Chi Foundation provides medical and financial support to patients with Stage I-II breast cancer. The foundation requires a thorough documentation process, including social case studies and virtual house visits.
Purpose: To provide medical and financial assistance to breast cancer patients.
Benefits and Services:
- One-time assistance per year for up to 3 cycles of treatment
Contact Information: Submit requirements through Tzu Chi PH Ssd’s Facebook Messenger.
The Carewell Community Foundation, Inc.
The Cancer Resource and Wellness (Carewell) Community is a nonprofit foundation providing support, education, and hope to cancer patients and their loved ones. Founded in 2005, Carewell offers resources and services inspired by The Wellness Community (TWC) in the US.
Purpose: To support cancer patients and their families through education, resources, and community.
Benefits and Services:
- Support and educational resources for cancer patients and their loved ones.
Contact Information:
- Phone: (632) 815-1294
- TeleFax: (632) 751-0242
- Email: info@carewellcommunity.org
The Pink for Life
The Pink for Life Foundation provides assistance to Stage 1 and 2 breast cancer patients. They work with patients to provide necessary treatments, especially for those who are financially disadvantaged.
Purpose: To assist breast cancer patients in receiving necessary treatment.
Benefits and Services:
- Medical assistance for breast cancer patients.
Louie Jacinto Foundation
The Louie Jacinto Foundation provides free medications to indigent patients, particularly those suffering from cancer, ensuring they have access to necessary treatments.
Purpose: To provide free medications to indigent cancer patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Free medications for cancer patients.
Kythe Foundation
Kythe Foundation offers assistance to pediatric cancer patients in selected hospitals across the Philippines. They focus on providing emotional support, financial assistance, and coordination of care particularly to terminal patients.
Purpose: To support pediatric cancer patients and their families.
Benefits and Services:
- Financial assistance and emotional support for pediatric cancer patients.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 376-3454,
- Address: Room 201 FSS 1 Bldg. #20 Sct. Tuason Corner St. Brgy. Laging Handa, Quezon City.
St. John the Baptist Parish/Quiapo Church
St. John the Baptist Parish provides medical assistance to indigent patients, helping them with their healthcare needs. Do note that the submission of applications is only open from Tuesday to Friday at 9AM.
Purpose: To offer medical assistance to indigent patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Medical assistance.
Contact Information: Call 733-4945.
GMA Kapuso Foundation
GMA Kapuso Foundation provides assistance to pediatric patients aged 0-18 from government hospitals. They offer support for medical treatments, including the necessary documentation.
Purpose: To assist pediatric patients in need of medical treatment.
Benefits and Services:
- Medical assistance for pediatric patients.
Contact Information: Call 928-4299 or visit 2/F Kapuso Center, Samar St. Cor. Jamboree St., Diliman, Quezon City.
ABS-CBN Tulong Center
ABS-CBN Tulong Center offers medical assistance to patients from government hospitals, providing support through various forms of aid, including prescriptions and laboratory requests.
Purpose: To provide medical assistance to patients in need.
Benefits and Services:
- Medical assistance, including prescriptions and laboratory support.
Contact Information: Call 414-1296/414-5431, or visit ABS-CBN Center Road, Mo. Ignacia St., Quezon City.
Andres Soriano Foundation
The Andres Soriano Foundation offers financial assistance to breast cancer patients in Stage I-II, ensuring they have access to necessary treatments and medications.
Purpose: To provide financial assistance to breast cancer patients.
Benefits and Services:
- Financial assistance for breast cancer treatment.
Contact Information: Call 831-9941/834-0872. Address: Andrew Avenue, Pasay City 1300.
Video: Free Cancer Treatment at East Avenue Medical Center (EAMC)
There are a lot of assistance programs available to cancer patients in the Philippines. These programs vary in nature and scope so you will need to check on the ones that suit you best. But, if you find yourself at a loss about where to start seeking help for cancer assistance in the country, you may check out this video from Jing Castaneda and learn more about the free cancer treatment available at EAMC today:
Summary
Cancer patients in the Philippines can access a wide range of assistance programs, from financial aid to healthcare services and emotional support, ensuring they receive the necessary treatments and care. If you or someone you know is battling cancer, you may explore and reach out to these institutions to find the resources and support you need during this challenging journey.