Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has called out the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth for their failure to efficiently utilize available funds, which has led to the removal of government subsidies for 2025. Lee warned that the lack of a clear plan and slow implementation of benefits are jeopardizing the health and well-being of millions of Filipinos.

“PhilHealth’s ₱500 billion investible funds are not a surplus—they’re resources meant to alleviate the healthcare burdens of our people. Yet, these funds remain largely untapped while many Filipinos forgo necessary treatments due to high costs,” Lee said. He described the delays in benefit enhancements as a systemic failure, criticizing DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa for his lack of action despite commitments made during budget deliberations.

Lee noted that commitments such as free eye checkups, expanded heart procedure coverage, and a 50% increase in some PhilHealth case rates were recently approved. However, he stressed that these initiatives are long overdue and insufficient to address the healthcare needs of the nation.

“Every day of inaction adds to the suffering of Filipinos. We need leaders who prioritize healthcare over bureaucracy. If we continue at this pace, the Filipino people will never receive the care they deserve,” Lee stated, reiterating his call for leadership changes in the DOH.

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