Manila, Sept. 9 -- The Department of Health will prioritize operational efficiency, primary care, and financial protection under the proposed 2027 national budget, Health Secretary Edwin Mercado said Wednesday.

In a radio interview, Mercado said the DOH is among the three departments prioritized in the Department of Budget and Management's National Expenditure Program.

He said the proposed budget provides for essential operating expenses and personnel salaries, as well as expanded programs through the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth).

Rather than simply responding to budget reductions, however, the DOH is focusing on making better use of available resources, Mercado said.

"Ito lang po ay ginagawa po ng DBM para nga po pa...