Sen. JV Ejercito was named a 2025 Outstanding Filipino, receiving national recognition for his legislative record and direct role in shaping the country’s universal health care system.
The award was conferred by the Junior Chamber International Senate Philippines, which honors Filipinos aged 41 and above whose work has produced sustained public impact. Ejercito was cited for policy leadership that translated health reform from legislation into nationwide coverage.
Ejercito authored and principally sponsored Republic Act No. 11223, or the Universal Health Care Act, which placed all Filipinos under automatic health coverage and expanded access to medical services nationwide. The law integrated citizens into the National Health Insurance Program, allowing patients to seek care in hospitals without the need for prior enrollment.
During his time in the Senate, Ejercito pushed for expanded Philippine Health Insurance Corporation benefits, lower out of pocket health expenses, and continued investment in public hospitals and health facilities, with emphasis on rural and underserved communities. His legislative work also covered housing and infrastructure, including his role in establishing the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and advancing public private partnership measures.
“This award serves as a personal reminder that the work does not stop. It 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,” Ejercito said.
The Outstanding Filipino Award recognizes policy driven public service with lasting national impact, placing emphasis on reforms that deliver measurable benefit to everyday Filipinos.
