The projected 18.3% increase in healthcare costs in the Philippines this year has prompted AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee to renew his call for sweeping reforms in the country’s healthcare system. With PhilHealth holding over ₱500 billion in funds and a ₱100 billion annual government subsidy, Lee is urging immediate action to expand benefits and alleviate the burden on Filipinos.
A recent Global Medical Trends Survey by WTW revealed that the Philippines is second only to Indonesia in Asia Pacific when it comes to rising medical costs. This double-digit increase threatens to exacerbate the challenges faced by Filipinos, many of whom already struggle to afford hospital bills and essential medicines.
“Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee remarked, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issue to ensure Filipinos are not left behind.
With PhilHealth holding significant financial reserves, Lee argues that there is no excuse for delays in expanding benefits. “DOH as the head of PhilHealth Board and the state health insurer itself must ramp up its efforts to utilize the more than ₱500 billion available funds to further increase the benefits,” he stated.
Lee has already made significant strides in healthcare reform. In February 2024, his efforts led to a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits—the first major adjustment in over a decade. This was followed by a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates, a milestone that reflects Lee’s relentless push for accessible healthcare.
Despite these achievements, Lee highlights the need for PhilHealth and DOH to fulfill their remaining commitments. During the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations, he secured agreements to implement additional benefits, including free dialysis, expanded coverage for heart ailments, and free diagnostic tests such as CT scans and MRIs.
However, these promises remain unrealized, prompting Lee to demand accountability. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito. Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he stressed.
Lee’s advocacy has already brought significant improvements to the healthcare system, including:
These reforms reflect Lee’s commitment to easing the financial burden on Filipino families and ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all.
At the core of Lee’s campaign is his vision for Universal Health Care, where every Filipino has access to free medicines and treatments. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” underscores his belief that the government has a responsibility to provide comprehensive healthcare services.
“Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared. His vision resonates with millions of Filipinos who dream of a healthcare system that prioritizes compassion, equity, and quality.
As healthcare costs continue to rise, Lee remains steadfast in his mission to push for reforms that address these challenges. He calls on Filipinos to join his advocacy, stating, “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses para tuluyang makamit ang isang patas, de-kalidad, at mapagmalasakit na serbisyong pangkalusugan sa bansa.”
Lee’s leadership offers hope amid mounting healthcare challenges. His tireless efforts to hold institutions accountable and advocate for expanded benefits ensure that Filipinos will not face these rising costs alone.
Manoy Wilbert Lee’s work in healthcare reform is more than just policy—it is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of every Filipino. As the nation grapples with rising medical expenses, Lee’s advocacy provides a blueprint for a future where healthcare is a right, not a privilege.
#ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthReforms #HealthcareAccessibility #UniversalHealthcarePH
