Sen. Joseph Victor Ejercito, UHC author, said funds were already allotted for UHC in 2019’s P3.8-trillion national budget ratified by Congress. Legislators had estimated that UHC would need at least P257 billion in the first year of its implementation. Senate President Vicente Sotto III said passing the sin tax bill was “not imperative” in implementing UHC. Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto said funds for UHC could come from an increase in taxes on sugar. ADVERTISEMENTInterior Secretary Eduardo Año had asked all local government units to remove all campaign materials from government facilities, property and vehicles.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer February 17, 2019 20:48 UTC