Las Piñas Representative Camille Villar has filed House Bill No. 5243, which seeks coverage for medical and hospitalization expenses of women in poverty.

"Granting free medical treatment and hospitalization benefits to indigent women is in consonance with the Constitutional provisions that recognize the need for such facilities and opportunities that will enhance their welfare and enable them to realize their full potential," the solon explained.

Beneficiaries include those suffering from "women's diseases" such as cancer of the reproductive organ, cancer of the breast and pregnancy-related illnesses, and injuries or illnesses because of violence inflicted on them.

A special ward in provincial and district hospitals "which are capable of providing major clinical services" would be dedicated to them. 

To avail of the benefits provided under the proposal, the potential beneficiary needs to secure a certification from the Social Welfare department verifying her indigency and medical condition.

Patients will also include the employed and those whose monthly income does not exceed P5,000. 

"Women's health and welfare is of paramount importance considering that women constitute half of the country's population, and women's health and well-being affect the health of the next generation," Villar pointed out.