Makati stops healthcare subsidy for ‘embo’ residents

MANILA, Philippines — The local government of Makati announced yesterday that residents of the enlisted men’s barrio or “embo” barangays are no longer qualified for the subsidized healthcare benefits of the city’s yellow card.

The yellow card program is an initiative of Makati, which provides free or subsidized healthcare to cardholders in city-run hospitals.

According to the Makati government, the move is in compliance with the Supreme Court (SC)’s ruling in 2021, giving Taguig City the jurisdiction over the 10 embo barangays.

“Following the decision of the SC, we regret to inform you that starting Jan. 1, the yellow card of those from the 10 embo barangays will no longer be valid,” the Makati government said.

“As much as Makati wants to keep health centers and lying-in clinics open, we need to shut down as their licenses to operate have expired,” city hall added.

The local government, however, clarified that government employees with yellow cards may still avail themselves of Makati’s healthcare subsidy.

In 2023, the SC upheld its 2021 decision, transferring the jurisdiction of the 10 embo barangays from Makati to Taguig.

These are Barangays Cembo, South Cembo, Comembo, East Rembo, West Rembo, Pembo, Pitogo, Post Proper Northside, Post Proper Southside and Rizal.