Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has expressed strong opposition against the removal of government subsidies for PhilHealth in the 2025 national budget, warning that the decision will worsen the healthcare burden on Filipinos, especially those from marginalized sectors. Lee, a staunch advocate for universal healthcare, described the move as “an injustice to the Filipino people.”

“Millions of indigents, senior citizens, and PWDs rely on this subsidy to access life-saving healthcare services. Removing it will strip them of these essential benefits,” Lee said. He criticized DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa for failing to uphold the commitments made during the budget deliberations to lower out-of-pocket medical expenses for Filipinos.

Lee has consistently championed healthcare reforms, successfully pushing for a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits earlier this year. He also exposed in 2023 that PhilHealth had ₱466 billion in investible funds and a ₱68.4 billion net income, which he argued should be used to expand health benefits and reduce premium contributions.

The solon reiterated his call for systemic changes to ensure that health funds are used effectively, emphasizing that healthcare is a right, not a privilege. “The Filipino people deserve a reliable and compassionate healthcare system,” he stated.

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