Following a Supreme Court decision to halt PhilHealth’s fund transfers, Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee is pushing for immediate improvements in PhilHealth’s services. Lee has argued that the agency’s funds should remain focused on expanding health benefits for Filipinos rather than diverted to non-health projects. “Naninindigan po tayo na ang pondo para sa kalusugan ay hindi dapat gamitin sa mga programang hindi kasinghalaga ng kalusugan ng mga Pilipino,” he stated.

The Department of Finance’s recent order resulted in P60 billion being moved from PhilHealth to the Treasury earlier this year, triggering widespread concern. Lee argues that the excess funds from PhilHealth could be better used to enhance the agency’s services, reduce membership contributions for lower-income earners, or provide immediate healthcare benefits. His advocacy is based on a core principle: health funds should serve health needs first.

Lee suggested that if the government truly requires funds, they should seek them from other GOCCs that have surplus funds and are not tasked with delivering essential social services. “Imbes na sa PhilHealth bumawas ng pondo, kunin na lang sa iba pang GOCCs na may excess funds,” he said, noting that healthcare must be the priority. His commitment includes ensuring that PhilHealth benefits are strengthened and expanded as soon as possible.

These funds, he argued, could jumpstart several health reforms Lee secured in recent legislative debates. By December 2024, he envisions expanded access to diagnostics, cancer treatments, and other critical services. His goal is clear: use PhilHealth’s resources to support Filipinos facing serious health challenges rather than meet broader fiscal needs.

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