MANILA, Philippines — Senator JV Ejercito has been recognized as a 2025 recipient of The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) Award, an honor celebrating his significant contributions to public service and his pioneering role in Philippine healthcare reform.
The TOFIL Award, presented by the Junior Chamber International Senate Philippines (JCISP), is a prestigious accolade given to Filipinos aged 41 and older who have demonstrated exemplary service toward national development and public welfare.
The “Father” of Universal Health Care Ejercito’s selection highlights his legislative legacy as the principal author and sponsor of Republic Act No. 11223, or the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act. This landmark legislation institutionalized automatic health insurance coverage for all Filipinos and continues to be the foundation for expanding affordable medical services, particularly in underserved and rural communities.
Beyond healthcare, the Senator was also recognized for his work in:
- Housing: Playing a central role in the creation of the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD).
- Infrastructure: Championing the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Code to streamline national development projects.
A Resolve to Do Better In his acceptance, Senator Ejercito expressed his gratitude, stating that the award serves as a “personal reminder” that his work is far from over. “This award renews my resolve to keep doing better and to keep serving with purpose in our effort to improve the quality of life of our fellow Filipinos,” he said.
Ejercito has recently been an advocate for increasing PhilHealth benefits and reducing out-of-pocket expenses for patients, ensuring that the promise of the UHC Act is fully realized for every citizen.
The TOFIL Awards remain one of the most respected recognition programs in the country, honoring individuals who lead by example and contribute to a more equitable and prosperous Philippines.