The Republic of the Philippines is seeking to expand access to the formal sector of medical care. Concentrates on the alternative ways in which that expansion can be financed. First, provides the background by presenting data on mortality and morbidity as indicators of health status, and of manpower and institutions as measures of care inputs. Second, examines private payment, concentrating on family resources, community co‐operatives, private insurance and employer provided services. Third, considers direct provision and national health insurance, which are the principal modes of public payment for care. Makes recommendations about the financing of health care and the mixed health economy that are of relevance in developed and less‐developed countries alike.