As 2024 comes to a close, Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee reflects on a year filled with achievements and renewed hope for the Filipino people. Known for his tenacious advocacy for health, agriculture, and social services, Lee’s efforts have resulted in significant victories that continue to shape the lives of countless Filipinos, particularly those from vulnerable sectors.
In his year-end message, Lee expressed gratitude for the successes achieved over the past year, attributing them to collective effort and faith. “Nagpapasalamat po tayo, unang-una sa Panginoon, sa mga biyaya at tagumpay na nakamit natin nitong nagdaang taon, sa pagsusulong ng mga polisiya at batas para mapagaan ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ng mas nangangailangan,” he said.
Lee emphasized the importance of unity and compassion as the nation moves forward, stating, “Sa kabila po ng mga hinaharap nating hamon at darating pang pagsubok, sama-sama nating salubungin ang Bagong Taon na puno ng pag-asa, tatag ng loob at malasakit sa isa’t isa.”
He also extended his heartfelt thanks to his colleagues in the House of Representatives and his dedicated staff, acknowledging their support and solidarity in advancing shared causes.
Lee’s unwavering commitment to healthcare reform remains one of his defining achievements in 2024. As the lawmaker who first exposed PhilHealth’s billions of unused funds in 2023, Lee pushed for reforms that have since transformed the state health insurer’s services.
This year, his efforts culminated in a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, implemented last February 14, 2024, marking the first significant adjustment in over a decade. Additional reforms included free dialysis treatments and a dramatic increase in breast cancer treatment coverage, from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million.
Lee’s advocacy also paved the way for future benefits, such as free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. His push for a 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplants further demonstrated his commitment to ensuring accessible healthcare for all Filipinos.
“Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan ngunit hindi po dito natatapos ang ating paniningil at pangangalampag sa Department of Health (DOH) at PhilHealth hanggang maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot,” he declared, reinforcing his slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!”
In addition to his healthcare advocacy, Lee has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. As the representative of AGRI Party-list, Lee has championed measures to protect the livelihood of farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers while promoting food security and fair pricing.
This year saw the passage of three landmark laws authored by Lee:
Lee continues to push for additional legislation, including the Cheaper Rice Act, Post-Harvest Facilities Act, Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act, and Fishing Shelters and Ports Act.
As 2025 approaches, Lee remains hopeful and determined to build on the successes of 2024. He acknowledged the growing support for his initiatives, stating, “Nagpapasalamat po tayo sa lumalawak pang suporta ng ating mga kababayan sa ating mga ipinaglalabang dagdag na serbisyo at benepisyo na karapatan at deserve nilang matanggap.”
Lee’s message for the new year is one of optimism and collective strength: “Sa patuloy po ninyong tiwala at pakikipagtulungan, marami pa tayong mapagtatagumpayan sa mga susunod na taon.”
As he concluded his year-end statement, Lee extended warm wishes to the nation: “Wishing you a Grace-filled and Happy New Year! God bless us all!”
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