Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has criticized the slow implementation of expanded health benefits by PhilHealth, calling on the DOH to act swiftly in addressing the gaps in the country’s healthcare system. He highlighted how delays in utilizing PhilHealth’s available funds are denying millions of Filipinos access to essential medical services.

“The recent approval of benefit increases is not enough. These are long overdue and fail to meet the commitments made to Congress and the Filipino people,” Lee said. He noted that funds for healthcare should never be redirected or left idle while Filipinos continue to suffer from high out-of-pocket expenses.

Lee has been vocal in his advocacy for health reforms, successfully pushing for a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits in February 2024. He also pushed for free dialysis and the expansion of breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4 million. However, he remains dissatisfied with the pace of progress, citing the need for further benefit increases and expanded coverage for diagnostic tests, heart procedures, and life-saving treatments.

The solon also filed a measure to investigate ₱11 billion worth of expired medicines and vaccines in DOH warehouses, highlighting the inefficiency as a grave disservice to Filipinos who cannot afford basic healthcare. “Accountability is non-negotiable. Those responsible for this negligence should not see another Christmas in their positions,” Lee declared.

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