Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS
Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS “Paspasan pa ang pagdaragdag ng benepisyo!” This was the statement of AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee as he reiterated his call to further increase benefits provided by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) in response to the projected 18.3% increase in health care costs in the Philippines this year. In the latest Global Medical Trends Survey conducted by WTW, a global advisory, broking and solutions company, the Philippines is expected to post the double digit increase in medical costs, the second highest in Asia Pacific next to Indonesia which is expected to incur 19.4% increase. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth. Kaya dapat lang na dagdagan pa ito para naman talagang mabawasan ang pangamba at alalahanin ng ating mga kababayan sa pagkakasakit,” the solon from Bicol said. “DOH as the head of PhilHealth Board and the state health insurer itself must ramp up its efforts to utilize the more than P500 billion, or half a trillion available funds to further increase the benefits and genuinely achieve the objectives of Universal Health Care,” Lee said. The Bicolano lawmaker likewise reiterated his call to leave no stone unturned to completely allay the fears of Filipinos from falling ill as they fear sinking further into poverty due to their inability to buy medicines and afford high hospital costs. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito. Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito. Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito at sobrang delayed na rin ng implementasyon nito,” Lee said. It can be recalled that the Bicolano lawmaker was the first to expose in September 2023 that PhilHealth had enormous available funds amounting to more than P500 billion, aside from the more than P100 billion government subsidy every year. While Lee acknowledges the recent implementation of another 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits covering 9,000 case rates, a result of his consistent push to improve the country’s healthcare services, he emphasizes that there’s still a lot to be done, highlighting the other commitments he sealed that DOH and PhilHealth have yet to comply with. The said commitment was signed by no less than DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President and CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. during the House Plenary deliberations on the 2025 DOH Budget that ended in a mic scuffle last September 25. Aside from the recent 50% increase, Lee was also instrumental in the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which started on February 14, after more than a decade of case rates not being reviewed or adjusted. Lee also prevailed in pushing for free dialysis, increase in coverage for breast cancer treatment from P100,000 to P1.4 million, free eye checkup, free cataract extraction and free prescription glasses, and pushing for expanded benefits on heart ailments, new benefit packages for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplant. “Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan, pero hindi matatapos ang ating pangangalampag hangga’t hindi pa libre ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng mga Pilipino. Dapat sagot na ito ng gobyerno. Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee said. “Marami na rin tayong kasama sa panawagan na ito na ating sinimulan mahigit isang taon na ang nakakaraan. 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,” he added. ### Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 09 Jan 2025 Amid expected 18% increase in PH health care costs LEE TO DOH, PHILHEALTH: RAMP UP MORE BENEFIT INCREASES WITH BILLIONS OF FUNDS 04 Jan 2025 Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 03 Jan 2025 PhilHealth Reforms: How Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Redefined Healthcare in 2024 Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024
Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee has long been a staunch advocate for the welfare of Filipinos, with his work spanning two critical sectors: health and agriculture. In 2024, Lee achieved remarkable milestones that reinforced his commitment to uplifting the lives of farmers, fisherfolk, and the general population. His dual focus on healthcare reform and agricultural development has positioned him as a transformative figure in the nation’s journey toward equity and progress. A Vision for Food Security and Livelihoods As the representative of the AGRI Party-list, Lee has consistently championed policies to protect the livelihood of farmers and fisherfolk. Recognizing their vital role in ensuring the nation’s food security, Lee has led efforts to create sustainable solutions to the rising cost of food and the challenges faced by the agricultural sector. Among Lee’s key legislative accomplishments in 2024 are the passage of three landmark laws: Republic Act (RA) No. 11985: The Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, aimed at revitalizing the local salt industry to reduce import dependency and support local producers. RA 12022: The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, which penalizes activities that harm farmers and food producers, such as smuggling and hoarding. RA 12078: The Agricultural Tariffication Act, which provides a sustainable framework for balancing tariff policies with the protection of local agricultural industries. These measures are not just policy wins—they represent Lee’s dedication to addressing systemic issues in the agricultural sector and his vision of empowering rural communities. Legislative Advocacy for a Better Tomorrow In addition to his legislative victories, Lee has continued to push for the passage of critical bills designed to further strengthen the agricultural sector. These include: The Cheaper Rice Act, which aims to stabilize rice prices and make this staple food more affordable for Filipino families. The Post-Harvest Facilities Act, which seeks to provide farmers with access to modern facilities to reduce post-harvest losses. The Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act, designed to establish accessible marketplaces for local farmers and consumers. The Fishing Shelters and Ports Act, which proposes the construction of essential infrastructure to support the livelihoods of fisherfolk. Lee’s proactive approach to legislation reflects his understanding of the interconnectedness of food security, economic stability, and national development. Healthcare Reform: A Parallel Priority While Lee’s work in agriculture is commendable, his advocacy for healthcare reform has been equally impactful. As the lawmaker who first exposed PhilHealth’s billions of unused funds in 2023, Lee has since worked tirelessly to implement reforms that directly benefit Filipinos. In 2024, Lee successfully pushed for a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, free dialysis treatments, and a substantial rise in coverage for breast cancer treatment—from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. These reforms have brought relief to countless families burdened by the high cost of medical care. Additionally, Lee’s efforts to include free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses in PhilHealth’s coverage demonstrate his commitment to making healthcare more accessible. His call for a 50% increase in benefits for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplants reflects his broader vision of a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino. Bridging Sectors: Agriculture and Health as National Priorities Lee’s advocacy highlights the interconnectedness of health and agriculture. By ensuring that farmers and fisherfolk have access to livelihood opportunities, he indirectly addresses health disparities, as improved economic stability enables better access to medical care. Similarly, his healthcare reforms aim to reduce out-of-pocket expenses, allowing families to allocate more resources to essentials like food and education. “Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan ngunit hindi po dito natatapos ang ating paniningil at pangangalampag sa Department of Health at PhilHealth,” Lee said, underscoring his relentless pursuit of comprehensive reforms. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” resonates across both sectors, symbolizing his commitment to addressing the needs of every Filipino. Looking Ahead to 2025 As the nation prepares to enter 2025, Lee remains optimistic about the future. He continues to call for unity and compassion, urging Filipinos to work together in overcoming challenges. “Sa patuloy po ninyong tiwala at pakikipagtulungan, marami pa tayong mapagtatagumpayan sa mga susunod na taon,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of collective effort in achieving shared goals. Lee’s dual focus on agriculture and health has set the stage for transformative change. By addressing the needs of two of the nation’s most critical sectors, he has created a roadmap for a more equitable and prosperous Philippines. A Legacy of Service and Advocacy Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s work in 2024 serves as a reminder that true leadership is defined by service. His dedication to healthcare and agriculture reflects his deep commitment to the Filipino people and his belief in a brighter future. As his advocacy continues, Lee’s legacy of compassion and determination remains an inspiration for generations to come. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #AgricultureAndHealth #GamotMoSagotKo #FoodSecurityPH #HealthcareForFilipinos Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 Jan 2025 Agriculture and Health: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee’s Twin Pillars of Advocacy in 2024 03 Jan 2025 PhilHealth Reforms: How Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Redefined Healthcare in 2024 02 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: Marking 2024 with Milestones in Advocacy and Service Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: Marking 2024 with Milestones in Advocacy and Service
Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: Marking 2024 with Milestones in Advocacy and Service 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. A Year of Gratitude and Resolve 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. Transforming Healthcare: Lee’s Legacy in PhilHealth Reform 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!” Championing Agriculture and Food Security 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: Republic Act (RA) No. 11985: The Philippine Salt Industry Development Act, revitalizing the local salt industry. RA 12022: The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, aimed at curbing illegal activities that harm farmers and food producers. RA 12078: The Agricultural Tariffication Act, providing a framework for sustainable tariff policies to support local agriculture. 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. Looking Ahead to 2025 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!” #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthReforms #FoodSecurityPH #BetterServicesForFilipinos Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: Marking 2024 with Milestones in Advocacy and Service 01 Jan 2025 Healthcare Advocacy in Action: "Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko" 31 Dec 2024 LEE MARKS 2024 WITH BIG WINS, VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR BETTER SERVICES FILIPINOS DESERVE Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
LEE MARKS 2024 WITH BIG WINS, VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR BETTER SERVICES FILIPINOS DESERVE
LEE MARKS 2024 WITH BIG WINS, VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR BETTER SERVICES FILIPINOS DESERVE Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee is elated over the productive year in fighting for meaningful measures to ease the burden and allay the concerns of Filipinos, especially the vulnerable sectors. “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,” Lee said. “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. Patuloy po sana tayong magtulungan para mabawasan ang pangamba ng bawat Pilipino, kasama ang mga kababayan nating nakikipagsapalaran sa iba’t ibang panig ng mundo,” he added. The Bicolano lawmaker also took the time to thank his colleagues in the House of Representatives and his staff saying, “I thank all of you for your support for our shared causes. There may have been hardships, like in any other endeavor, but without your solidarity and compassion, we would not have been able to reach this point.” As a staunch health advocate, Lee cemented his legacy in fighting for the needed increase in benefits provided by the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). As the lawmaker who first exposed the hundreds of billions of funds of PhilHealth in September 2023, Lee made great strides as he successfully pushed for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, implemented last February 14. Through his persistent efforts, PhilHealth also implemented more benefits enhancements such as free dialysis and the increase in coverage for breast cancer treatment from P100,000 to P1.4 million. Lee also prevailed in including free eye checkup, free cataract extraction and free prescription glasses and another round of 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits, and pushing for expanded benefits on heart ailments, new benefit packages for outpatient emergency care services and kidney transplant. “Marami na tayong napagtagumpayan ngunit hindi po dito natatapos ang ating paniningil at pangangalampag sa Deparment of Health (DOH) at PhilHealth hanggang maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot. Dahil ang ipinaglalaban ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” he stressed. AGRI Party-list, under Lee’s leadership, also doubled down in championing legislative measures to protect the livelihood of farmers, fisherfolk and local food producers, to provide long-term solutions to rising prices of food, and achieve food security. Among Lee’s principally authored legislations that passed into law this year are Republic Act (RA) No. 11985 or the “Philippine Salt Industry Development Act”, RA 12022 or the “Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act” and RA 12078 or the “Agricultural Tariffication Act (RA 12078)”. AGRI Party-list, likewise, continues to push for the passage of the “Cheaper Rice Act,” “Post-harvest Facilities Act,” Kadiwa Agri-Food Terminal Act” and “Fishing Shelters and Ports Act”. For 2025, Lee expressed hope for continued strength, optimism and compassion in achieving the Filipino’s dream. “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. Sa patuloy po ninyong tiwala at pakikipagtulungan, marami pa tayong mapagtatagumpayan sa mga susunod na taon,” the solon from Bicol said. “Wishing you a Grace-filled and Happy New Year! God bless us all!” he concluded. ### Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 31 Dec 2024 LEE MARKS 2024 WITH BIG WINS, VOWS TO CONTINUE FIGHTING FOR BETTER SERVICES FILIPINOS DESERVE 29 Dec 2024 Is this the best you can do? PHILHEALTH ON THE RIGHT TRACK WITH NEW BENEFITS BUT STILL NEEDS TO DO MORE – LEE 28 Dec 2024 Lee Urges DOH to Prioritize Healthcare, Fast-Track Benefit Enhancements Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News