Supreme Court Welcomes SC Decision to Stop PhilHealth Fund Transfer
Supreme Court Welcomes SC Decision to Stop PhilHealth Fund Transfer Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee is elated over the Supreme Court’s recent issuance of Temporary Restraining Order (TRO), halting the transfer of PhilHealth’s excess funds to the National Treasury. Lee has passionately opposed the said transfer, advocating for PhilHealth funds to be strictly utilized for healthcare, reinforcing his call that “Ang pondo para sa kalusugan, gamitin para sa kalusugan!” (“Funds for health should be used for health!”). The TRO immediately blocked the intended transfer of P29.9 billion to the Treasury this November. This comes after the Department of Finance (DOF) transferred an initial P60 billion earlier this year under its Circular No. 003-2024 ordering the transfer of P89.9 billion excess funds. According to Lee, these billions could be directed to urgently needed health services for Filipinos instead of being channeled elsewhere. “Natutuwa po tayo sa desisyon na ito ng Korte Suprema na pagpapahinto sa paglipat ng pondo ng PhilHealth,” Lee stated, underscoring his relief at the ruling. He emphasized that PhilHealth’s surplus funds should be directed toward immediate healthcare improvements, particularly for underserved communities. Lee’s vocal stance on the issue began last year when he exposed the surplus, demanding that PhilHealth funds be used to improve essential health benefits rather than redirected for non-health purposes. Currently, Lee is providing relief efforts to communities in Bicol and other areas devastated by severe tropical storm Kristine, demonstrating his commitment to supporting Filipinos on multiple fronts. His efforts to protect PhilHealth funds reflect a broader mission to enhance healthcare access, reduce financial strain on Filipino families, and ensure government resources prioritize public health. #WiseHealth #HealthFunds #PhilHealth #TRO #HealthIsWealth Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Supreme Court Welcomes SC Decision to Stop PhilHealth Fund Transfer 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All After tirelessly advocating for free eye care, Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee applauded PhilHealth’s announcement that millions of Filipinos will soon have access to free prescription glasses and optometric services starting in November. This initiative, achieved through Lee’s efforts in collaboration with DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr., ensures that eye care reaches even the most financially vulnerable communities. This new service supports Lee’s goal of achieving affordable healthcare for all under the Universal Health Care Law. Lee, who is leading relief operations in Bicol for communities affected by Tropical Storm Kristine, highlighted the critical role that clear vision plays in enhancing productivity and quality of life. For many Filipinos, the high cost of eye check-ups and prescription glasses has been a burden. “Malaking tulong ito lalo na sa mahihirap nating kababayan na tinitiis na lang ang malabong paningin,” he said, stressing the benefits this initiative brings to families in need. Lee’s broader healthcare commitments include free diagnostic tests, expanded cancer treatment coverage, and a 50% increase in PhilHealth benefits—all set for implementation by year-end. “Laban natin itong lahat!” Lee declared, pledging to monitor DOH and PhilHealth to ensure these health services are delivered promptly. His advocacy continues to bridge healthcare gaps for millions across the nation, underscoring his dedication to a healthier Philippines. #FreeEyeCare #HealthcareForFilipinos #WilbertLeeHealthAdvocacy #AGRIForChange Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Supreme Court Welcomes SC Decision to Stop PhilHealth Fund Transfer 07 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs
Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee slammed the Department of Health (DOH) for being unable to provide a detailed and comprehensive plan to lower out-of-pocket expenses of Filipinos on healthcare which Secretary Ted Herbosa committed to submit by October 31, 2024 during the House deliberations of the 2025 National Budget. The said plan must include a comprehensive report on medicines and vaccines, ensuring availability of drugs and medicines in the DOH retained and specialty hospital starting fourth quarter of this year, and establishment of a monitoring system to ensure compliance and provide quarterly reports to the House Committee on Health and Committee on Appropriations. Further, Lee asked for a definite timeline in acquiring medical equipment for public hospitals. “Bilang Kalihim ng Kalusugan at Tagapangulo ng Board of Directors at Benefits Committee ng PhilHealth, hindi pwedeng hanggang sa pangako lang ang mga benepisyong pangkalusugan na opisyal naming nilagdaan at inilahad ko sa Kongreso,” said Lee referring to the health commitments signed by Herbosa and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. “Tulad ng nauna ko nang sinabi, kung walang balak si Sec. Herbosa na tuparin ito, dapat magbitiw na siya sa puwesto. Hindi tayo titigil sa paniningil at pagpapanagot kung mauuwi ito sa pagpapaasa na naman sa milyon-milyong Pilipino sa mga serbisyong deserve at karapatan nilang makuha sa ilalim ng Universal Health Care Law,” the solon added. Lee wrote letters addressed to the Health Secretary reminding the agency of the said commitments, primarily the plan to reduce Filipino spending on hospitalization costs and health services. Nonetheless, as of writing, the said plan has not been submitted by DOH without any explanation on the delay. “Kailangan ng komprehensibong plano na pundasyon ng epektibong pagpapatupad ng hinihingi nating mga dagdag na mga benepisyo. Hindi pwedeng daanin na naman tayo sa pandidribble at tingi-tinging mga serbisyo,” he said. Lee further stated the other commitments nearing its deadline such as 50% across-the-board PhilHealth benefit increases and free pediatrics and adult prescription glasses that must be implemented this November. “Nakita na natin ang pag-usad sa dapat na implementasyon ng libreng check-up sa mata at pagpapagawa ng salamin ng PhilHealth. Naghihintay tayo para sa napagkasunduang 50% na dagdag na mga benepisyo na dapat na ring ipatupad ng DOH at PhilHealth ngayong buwan,” the solon from Bicol said. Apart from the mentioned commitments, it can be recalled that during the last House Plenary Debates on the DOH 2025 Budget on September 25, Lee secured other commitments such as free Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and other diagnostic tests as part of outpatient services, and at least 80% coverage for cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024. A staunch health advocate, the solon from Bicol successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Sa laban para sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino, hindi pwede ang mga serbisyong huwad at pagpapanggap lang. Dahil habang pinatatagal at ipinagkakait ang mga dagdag na mga benepisyong pangkalusugan, maraming Pilipino ang namamatay at lumalala ang sakit, na nagpapaguho sa mga pangarap ng pamilya at lalong nagpapalubog sa ating mga kababayan sa kahirapan,” Lee said. “Laban natin itong lahat para makamit ang pangarap at hangarin ng mga Pilipino na maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot. Ibigay na ang kayang ibigay! Bilyon-bilyong pondo para sa kalusugan, gamitin sa kalusugan!” he added. Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos 05 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Welcomes Inclusion of Free Eyeglasses in PhilHealth Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee celebrated a breakthrough in healthcare accessibility as PhilHealth prepares to roll out free prescription glasses and optometric services in November. This initiative fulfills Lee’s commitment to securing essential health benefits for Filipinos, especially those unable to afford eye care. IPAO President Dr. John Nakpil noted that Lee’s efforts, along with DOH and PhilHealth’s support, led to the formation of a technical working group to create implementation guidelines for these benefits. The Bicolano lawmaker underscored the profound impact of this change, which promises a brighter future for millions. “Magbibigay liwanag ito hindi lang sa paningin, kundi pati na sa pang-araw-araw na pamumuhay,” he remarked, recognizing that good vision contributes to productivity and quality of life. Lee has consistently advocated for greater healthcare accessibility, with optometric services forming a crucial part of his broader vision for Universal Health Care. Additional services included in Lee’s health advocacy package with DOH and PhilHealth are free diagnostic tests such as MRI, CT, and PET scans by December 2024, along with 80% coverage for cancer treatments. “Patuloy po nating bantayan ang pagtupad ng DOH at PhilHealth sa mga ipinangako nilang serbisyong pangkalusugan,” Lee stated, vowing to ensure these commitments are fulfilled for the betterment of all Filipinos. #VisionCarePH #WilbertLeeForHealth #HealthcareAccessibility #AGRIForThePeople Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Welcomes Inclusion of Free Eyeglasses in PhilHealth Benefits
Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee Welcomes Inclusion of Free Eyeglasses in PhilHealth Benefits After almost a year of pushing for radical improvements in healthcare benefits, Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee welcomed PhilHealth’s announcement that free prescription glasses and optometric services will be included in its benefits package starting this November. These services, set to benefit over 40 million Filipinos, were part of the health commitments secured by Lee from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth CEO Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. during budget deliberations at the House of Representatives in September. Lee emphasized that this initiative is crucial for those who have had to forgo eye care due to financial constraints. Lee expressed his satisfaction, noting the impact this will have on millions who have been unable to afford eye check-ups or prescription glasses. “Masaya po tayong nalalapit na ang katuparan nito kung saan mahigit 40 milyong Pilipino ang makikinabang,” he said, underscoring the life-changing benefits this brings to families across the nation. Currently, Lee is in Bicol, leading relief efforts for those affected by Severe Tropical Storm Kristine and providing support to communities hit by the calamity. The Integrated Philippine Association of Optometrists (IPAO) praised Lee’s efforts, crediting his House Resolution No. 1623 filed in March, which nudged PhilHealth to add optometric services. “Malaking tulong ito lalo na sa mahihirap nating kababayan,” Lee added, noting that the new coverage will relieve many families of the financial burden of eye care and boost productivity by ensuring better vision for all. #HealthcareForAll #FreeVisionCare #WilbertLeeAdvocacy #AGRIForThePeople Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Demands Urgent UHC Amendments For Better Health Benefits, Lower Member Contributions
Lee Demands Urgent UHC Amendments For Better Health Benefits, Lower Member Contributions “Gamot at pagpapagamot ng Pilipino, dapat sagot ng gobyerno!” This was the statement of Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee as he urged the passage of the amendments on the Republic Act (RA) No. 11223 or the “Universal Healthcare (UHC) Act” to institutionalize the comprehensive and appropriate increase in Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) benefits and lower the contribution of its members, among others. Lee filed House Bill No. 10995 which amends the UHC Act to resolve issues hampering genuine universal healthcare for Filipinos. “Various challenges and issues hinder the objectives of the UHC. These include lack of legal provisions that mandate the regular and periodic review of the responsiveness of benefit packages that should lower the out-of-pocket medical costs of Filipinos, inefficiencies in managing funds, and public health emergencies that disrupt the law’s implementation,” the Bicolano lawmaker lamented. “Ilang taon na mula nang naisabatas ang Universal Healthcare Act pero nandyan pa rin ang matinding pangamba ng mga Pilipino sa pagkakasakit dahil sa takot na malubog sa utang at kahirapan dahil walang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital. Hindi ito deserve ng Pilipino. Kailangang palakasin pa ang UHC Law para mas mabawasan ang pasanin at alalahanin ng ating mga kababayan sa kanilang kalusugan,” he added. Among the key changes included in Lee’s measure is the provision that the Health Technology Assessment Council will review and assess the amounts of each PhilHealth benefit package and ensure that these are up-to-date. Additionally, HB 10995 seeks to lower the premium contributions of PhilHealth members. Instead of the law’s mandated 5% premium in 2024 and 2025, the amendment pushes for 4% and 4.25% respectively. The proposed bill will likewise give the President the power to suspend PhilHealth premium contribution increases in a state of national emergency, public health emergency, or state of calamity. “Sa pagbubukas ng Kongreso, tututukan po natin ang agarang pagsasabatas ng panukalang ito na kailangan para maabot ang pinaka-layunin ng UHC,” Lee said. “Napakaraming pera ng PhilHealth, dapat ilaan ito di lang sa pagpapalawak ng mga benepisyo para sa mga Pilipino, kundi pati na rin sa pagpapababa ng kontribusyon na isa ring mabigat na pasanin ng marami nating kababayan,” he added. A staunch health advocate, Lee is at the forefront of holding the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth accountable for its commitments to radically increase health benefits and for fighting for free diagnostic scans, free prescription eyeglasses and at least 80% coverage for cancer treatments and heart procedures, among others. Earlier, the solon from Bicol welcomed the issuance of a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) by the Supreme Court, halting the fourth and last tranche of PhilHealth fund transfer to the National Treasury, as there can be more funds for the radical expansion of PhilHealth benefits, which he has been consistently pushing for since last year. Lee successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Bawat araw ay marami tayong kababayan ang nangangambang magkasakit o nahihirapan sa karamdaman na hindi man lang nila maibili ng gamot o maipa-check up sa ospital dahil dagdag pa sa gastusin ng pamilya. Karapatan ito ng bawat Pilipino na dapat ipinagkakaloob ng UHC,” Lee remarked. “Hindi na puwede ang kulang-kulang na serbisyo at tingi-tinging dagdag sa mga benepisyong pangkalusugan. Hangad po natin na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino, sagot na ng gobyerno. Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko! Yan ang ating ipinaglalaban, at patuloy natin itong tututukan hanggang sa maramdaman ng ating mga kababayan, lalo na ng mas nangangailangan,” he added. Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays
Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Action on Coconut Farmers’ Health Benefits Amid Delays With the delayed health benefits for coconut farmers, Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee has once again urged PhilHealth and the Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) to expedite the release of promised healthcare support. He emphasized that the CFITF Act, enacted in 2021, guarantees these benefits for coconut farmers, who are vital to the country’s agricultural success. Without the promised support, Lee noted that coconut farmers struggle to maintain their health and sustain their livelihoods, impacting their productivity and overall well being. Lee, who has been vocal about prioritizing farmers’ needs, pointed out that recent government goals to become the world’s leading coconut exporter cannot be achieved without investing in farmers’ health and security. By ensuring that coconut farmers receive healthcare support, the government can enable them to work more effectively and safely, which will, in turn, strengthen the industry. In an episode of Si Manoy ang Ninong Ko featuring PCA Administrator Dexter Respicio Buted, Lee reiterated the importance of fast-tracking livelihood and healthcare assistance for the sector. Beyond advocating for coconut farmers, Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee successfully pushed the increase of PhilHealth’s benefit packages for the broader Filipino population. With a 30% PhilHealth benefits increase secured earlier this year, Lee continues to push for the inclusion of essential diagnostic services and a further 50% benefits increase. “Bawasan natin ang pangamba ng mga magniniyog na magkasakit sa takot na lalong malubog sa utang. Ang benepisyo nila ay dapat ibigay na,” Lee urged, advocating for swift government action. #CoconutFarmersDeserveBetter #HealthAndWelfare #WilbertLeeForProgress #AGRI2025 Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” Lee Pushes DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Commitments for Coconut Farmers Using Available Funds
Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” Lee Pushes DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Commitments for Coconut Farmers Using Available Funds Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee reminded PhilHealth and PCA to fulfill their mandated responsibilities to coconut farmers, calling for prompt implementation of health benefits promised under the CFITF Act. Signed into law in 2021, the CFITF Act requires that coconut farmers receive healthcare benefits to reduce the financial strain of medical expenses. Lee pointed out that despite the legislation, thousands of coconut farmers remain without these essential benefits, which affect their ability to maintain good health and support their families. In prior discussions with PhilHealth and PCA leaders, Lee emphasized that effective communication about these benefits is necessary so farmers are informed about their access to PhilHealth services. As a principal author of significant agricultural legislation, Lee has actively pursued solutions for both health and livelihood support for farmers, urging the immediate disbursement of funds for their welfare. He highlighted that without these resources, farmers continue to face significant financial stress, particularly in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. Lee also champions for expanding PhilHealth benefit packages for all Filipinos. He successfully pushed for a 30% increase in February, which included enhanced benefits for conditions like breast cancer and dialysis treatments. He is now calling on PhilHealth to further expand coverage to diagnostic tests such as MRI, CT Scan, and PET Scan. “Ang pondo para sa mga magniniyog ay para sa kanila. Huwag nating ipagkait ang karampatang serbisyo at tulong na matagal na nilang hinihintay,” Lee said, reiterating his commitment to protecting farmers’ welfare. #HealthcareForFarmers #SupportLocalIndustries #WilbertLeeAdvocacy #AGRIList Healthcare Policy Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Amid P30B Fund Transfer, Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee Urges DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Healthcare Promises Anew
Amid P30B Fund Transfer, Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee Urges DOH and PhilHealth to Fulfill Healthcare Promises Anew As PhilHealth’s P30 billion fund transfers to the National Treasury as part of its P89.9 billion transfer, Cong. Wilbert “Manoy” T. Lee calls on the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth to deliver on their commitments to reduce healthcare costs for Filipinos. Lee emphasizes that excess funds should expand PhilHealth’s benefit packages, noting that essential healthcare improvements are long overdue. “Naninindigan tayo na ang pondo para sa kalusugan ay dapat gamitin para sa kalusugan,” Lee stated, urging immediate implementation of agreed enhancements. #HealthcareForAll #PhilHealthCommitments #WilbertLeeAdvocacy #HealthcareFunding Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Lee Hails SC TRO On PhilHealth Fund Transfer, Renews Call For Expanded Health Benefits
Lee Hails SC TRO On PhilHealth Fund Transfer, Renews Call For Expanded Health Benefits “Ang pondo para sa kalusugan, gamitin para sa kalusugan!” This was reiterated by Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee as he welcomed the Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) issued by the Supreme Court to stop the transfer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) excess funds to the National Treasury that he vehemently opposed. “Natutuwa po tayo sa desisyon na ito ng Korte Suprema na pagpapahinto sa paglipat ng pondo ng PhilHealth. Mula nga po nang na-expose natin yung sobra-sobrang pondo ng PhilHealth noong nakaraang taon pa, paulit-ulit tayong nangalampag, at ipinaglaban nating gamitin ang pondo para agarang tugunan ang kulang-kulang na serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga Pilipino,” said Lee who is currently leading various relief efforts in Bicol and other parts of the country heavily affected by severe tropical storm Kristine. The TRO will stop the supposed final tranche of the PhilHealth fund transfer this November amounting to P29.9 billion. As of Oct. 16, P60 billion had already been transferred to the National Treasury as ordered by the Department of Finance (DOF) through its Circular No. 003-2024. The Bicolano lawmaker opposed the said transfer, saying “Naninindigan po tayo na ang pondo para sa kalusugan ay hindi dapat gamitin sa mga programang hindi kasinghalaga ng kalusugan ng mga Pilipino, o yung wala namang mamamatay kung hindi gagawin.” “Imbes na sa PhilHealth bumawas ng pondo, kunin na lang sa iba pang GOCCs na may excess funds at hindi bahagi ng mandato ang social services. Dapat unahin ang dagdag na mga benepisyo mula sa PhilHealth. Kapag may sobra pa, pwedeng i-suspend o babaan ang contribution ng mga ordinaryong empleyado,” the solon earlier said. For Lee, with PhilHealth’s billions of available funds, the commitments he secured from the Department of Health (DOH) and the state health insurer to make radical improvements in the healthcare sector should be immediately implemented. “Walang dahilan ang DOH at PhilHealth na hindi tuparin ang mga itinulak natin at napagkasunduang pagpapalawak ng benepisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga Pilipino.” It can be recalled that during the last House Plenary Debates on the 2025 DOH Budget, Lee secured significant commitments signed by DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President and Chief Executive Officer Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. Among the commitments sealed are: Free diagnostic tests such as Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan, Computed Tomography (CT) scan and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as part of outpatient services not later than December 31, 2024; At least 80% coverage for cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and procedures for heart diseases not later than December 31, 2024; 50% across-the-board PhilHealth benefit increases effective November 2024; Free pediatrics and adult prescription glasses effective November 2024. A staunch health advocate, the solon from Bicol successfully fought for the 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits which was implemented last February 14. These include increasing the PhilHealth benefit package for hemodialysis from P2,600 to P6,350 per session and from 90 sessions per year to 156 sessions annually, as well as the increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from P100,000 to P1.4M. “Ang gobyerno, hindi dapat pabigat sa taumbayan. Tungkulin nitong pagaanin ang pasanin ng ating mga kababayan, kasama na ang pagbura sa kanilang pangamba na magkasakit dahil sa takot na lalong malubog sa kahirapan dahil walang perang pambili ng gamot o pambayad sa ospital,” Lee said. “Marami pang kulang, hindi pwedeng tingi-tingi ang mga serbisyong pangkalusugan. Hangad po natin na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino, sagot na ng gobyerno. Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko. Yan ang ating ipinaglalaban, at hindi po natin ito tatantanan!” he added. Healthcare Access and Equity Previous PostNext Post Latest Posts 08 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee Secures Free Prescription Glasses in PhilHealth Package, Ensuring Eye Care for All 07 Nov 2024 Lee Blasts DOH For Failure To Submit Comprehensive Plan To Lower Out-Of-Pocket Medical Costs 06 Nov 2024 Cong. Manoy Wilbert Lee’s Push for Free Optometric Services to Benefit 40M Filipinos Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News