Intellicare sees rising demand for HMO benefits among workers

May 25, 2026
3:59PM PHT

Insider Spotlight

  • Employees are placing greater importance on healthcare benefits amid rising medical costs
  • Intellicare says accessible HMO coverage helps improve productivity and engagement
  • Insurance Commission data showed the HMO sector’s assets grew nearly 16 percent in Q1 2026
  • Companies are increasingly using healthcare packages to attract and retain talent


Filipino employees are increasingly prioritizing healthcare benefits when choosing employers as rising medical costs continue to strain household finances, according to healthcare provider Intellicare.

Data cited by the company showed health maintenance organization (HMO) coverage has become one of the top considerations for workers evaluating job opportunities, reflecting growing demand for financial protection and accessible healthcare support.

A study by Boston Consulting Group found that six out of 10 Filipino families could not shoulder a P10,000 hospital bill without borrowing money or relying on HMO coverage, underscoring the mounting healthcare burden faced by households. 

The trend was highlighted in a recent release from Intellicare, which pointed to growing demand for healthcare benefits as employees seek greater financial security and peace of mind amid rising healthcare costs.

Companies are placing greater focus on healthcare benefits as employees increasingly prioritize accessible and reliable medical coverage in the workplace. | Contributed photo

Why it matters

The Philippine HMO industry continues to expand alongside the growing emphasis on employee healthcare benefits. Data from the Insurance Commission showed total assets in the sector grew 15.95 percent year on year to P101.44 billion in the first quarter of 2026, while net income climbed more than 40 percent to P818.7 million due to stronger fee income growth.

The industry also delivered over P74 billion in healthcare benefits in 2025, highlighting the increasing role of HMOs in broadening healthcare access for Filipino workers.

Intellicare said it has been expanding its network across Metro Manila, Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao to make healthcare services more accessible for employers and employees in both urban and regional areas.

The company currently operates offices in Makati, Calamba, Bacolod, Cebu, and Davao, alongside satellite offices in key provincial locations including Angeles, Legazpi, Iloilo, Dumaguete, Cagayan de Oro, Kidapawan, and General Santos.

What they’re saying

“It gives our employees peace of mind—not just for themselves, but for their families. When people feel supported, they’re more engaged and able to focus on their work,” said Apple Ann Morales, head of human resources of Metro Dumaguete Water.

“A strong HMO package is something employees actively look for. It ensures healthcare is accessible and financially manageable, while also improving employee satisfaction, engagement, and productivity,” said Maan DC Dela Torre, manager of human resources and administration and chief compliance officer of Melco Factory Automation Philippines Inc.

Intellicare president Jeremy Matti said the company works with corporate clients to provide “holistic and efficient healthcare management” that helps strengthen organizations while improving employee well-being.

Intellicare said it currently serves nearly 1.2 million members, manages 3,000 corporate accounts, and works with a network of 69,000 doctors and specialists nationwide. —Princess Daisy C. Ominga | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma

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