UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT!
UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT! “Benepisyo muna bago koleksyon!” This was the statement of AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee as he welcomed the impending passage of the proposed amendments to Republic Act No. 11223 or the “Universal Health Care (UHC) Act”. Lee, principal author of House Bill No. 11357 which recently passed on second reading in the House of Representatives, reiterated that the current version of the UHC Law puts greater emphasis on premium collection rather than the enhancement of benefits that is why there is a need to balance these policies to provide quality and sufficient healthcare coverage. The Bicolano lawmaker earlier stressed the need to increase the budget for administrative costs of PhilHealth so it can boost its personnel to fast-track the implementation of healthcare benefit increases. Under this proposed measure, PhilHealth shall be authorized to charge a maximum of 7.5 percent of the total reimbursements or the benefits payments from the preceding year for its administrative expenses, instead of 7.5 percent of total premium collections for administrative costs. “Sa pamamagitan nito, kung mas mataas ang mga benepisyong babayaran ng PhilHealth, mas malaki din ang magiging budget nila. Ito ang pangmatagalang repormang itinutulak nating maisabatas para hindi na rin maulit ang zero subsidy at siya ring magtutulak sa PhilHealth para mag-refocus,” Lee said. “Hindi dapat kaltas o binabayarang kontribusyon ang nararamdaman ng mga Pilipino kundi dagdag na mga benepisyo. Sa pagsasabatas ng ipinaglaban nating mga probisyon, wala nang rason para sa DOH at PhilHealth para maging makupad sa pagdaragdag ng mga benepisyo,” he added. As early as October 2024, the solon from Bicol filed his proposed amendments to the UHC Law which include the timely assessment of case rates and lowering of premium contributions. Since Lee’s revelation of the hundreds of billions or more than half a trillion of PhilHealth’s “unused” funds in September 2023, massive increases of PhilHealth benefits were implemented since more than a decade of long-overdue benefit enhancement. Through Lee’s legislative measures and relentless efforts, PhilHealth benefits increased by 30% last February 2024 and implemented another 50% increase this 2025. The solon’s consistent calls for better healthcare benefits also paved the way for free dialysis, free eye check-up and prescription glasses for ages 0-15, free dental care, expanded coverage for breast cancer treatment, new benefit package for kidney transplant and heart ailments, and outpatient emergency care services, among others. “We thank our colleagues in the House of Representatives for their support of our proposed amendments. We hope to maintain this kind of momentum for the amendments of UHC until it is enacted and eventually implemented to help our countrymen. Isang napakahalagang hakbang nito palapit sa layunin ng Universal Health Care,” Lee stated. “Hindi po natin ito tatantanan hanggang maabot natin ang libreng gamot at pagpapagamot ng bawat Pilipino. Pagtulungan po nating maibsan hanggang tuluyang mabura ang pangamba ng ating mga kababayan sa pagkakasakit sa takot na lalong malubog sa utang at kahirapan.” He added: “Huwag tayong maging bulag at manhid sa napakarami nating mga kababayan na namamatay nang wala man lang laban sa sakit dahil lang sa di naibibigay ng gobyerno ang serbisyong deserve at nararapat para sa kanila. Ang gamot at pagpapagamot, dapat sagot na ng gobyerno. Ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 31 Jan 2025 UHC AMENDMENTS LEE FOUGHT FOR TO REFORM PHILHEALTH: HINDI NA PWEDENG PURO COLLECT! 28 Jan 2025 Wilbert Lee Pushes for Reforms to Maximize PhilHealth Benefits 22 Jan 2025 Public Hospitals Need Upgrades to Support New PhilHealth Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs The projected 18.3% increase in healthcare costs in the Philippines this year has prompted AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee to renew his call for sweeping reforms in the country’s healthcare system. With PhilHealth holding over ₱500 billion in funds and a ₱100 billion annual government subsidy, Lee is urging immediate action to expand benefits and alleviate the burden on Filipinos. A Troubling Forecast A recent Global Medical Trends Survey by WTW revealed that the Philippines is second only to Indonesia in Asia Pacific when it comes to rising medical costs. This double-digit increase threatens to exacerbate the challenges faced by Filipinos, many of whom already struggle to afford hospital bills and essential medicines. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee remarked, emphasizing the urgency of addressing the issue to ensure Filipinos are not left behind. Utilizing PhilHealth’s Resources With PhilHealth holding significant financial reserves, Lee argues that there is no excuse for delays in expanding benefits. “DOH as the head of PhilHealth Board and the state health insurer itself must ramp up its efforts to utilize the more than ₱500 billion available funds to further increase the benefits,” he stated. Lee has already made significant strides in healthcare reform. In February 2024, his efforts led to a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits—the first major adjustment in over a decade. This was followed by a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates, a milestone that reflects Lee’s relentless push for accessible healthcare. Unfulfilled Promises and Delays Despite these achievements, Lee highlights the need for PhilHealth and DOH to fulfill their remaining commitments. During the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations, he secured agreements to implement additional benefits, including free dialysis, expanded coverage for heart ailments, and free diagnostic tests such as CT scans and MRIs. However, these promises remain unrealized, prompting Lee to demand accountability. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito. Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he stressed. Milestones in Healthcare Advocacy Lee’s advocacy has already brought significant improvements to the healthcare system, including: Free dialysis treatments for patients in need. An increase in breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanded benefit packages for outpatient emergency care and kidney transplants. These reforms reflect Lee’s commitment to easing the financial burden on Filipino families and ensuring that healthcare is accessible to all. A Vision of Universal Healthcare At the core of Lee’s campaign is his vision for Universal Health Care, where every Filipino has access to free medicines and treatments. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” underscores his belief that the government has a responsibility to provide comprehensive healthcare services. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared. His vision resonates with millions of Filipinos who dream of a healthcare system that prioritizes compassion, equity, and quality. The Path Forward As healthcare costs continue to rise, Lee remains steadfast in his mission to push for reforms that address these challenges. He calls on Filipinos to join his advocacy, stating, “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.” Lee’s leadership offers hope amid mounting healthcare challenges. His tireless efforts to hold institutions accountable and advocate for expanded benefits ensure that Filipinos will not face these rising costs alone. A Legacy of Service Manoy Wilbert Lee’s work in healthcare reform is more than just policy—it is a testament to his commitment to improving the lives of every Filipino. As the nation grapples with rising medical expenses, Lee’s advocacy provides a blueprint for a future where healthcare is a right, not a privilege. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthReforms #HealthcareAccessibility #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Strengthening Healthcare Amid Rising Medical Costs 15 Jan 2025 LEE DEMANDS DOH TO PROVIDE MORE EQUIPMENT IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS, SEEKS AMNESTY ON HOSPITALS, DOCTORS WITH UNRESOLVED CASES 10 Jan 2025 Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms
Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms As the Philippines faces a projected 18.3% increase in healthcare costs in 2024, Representative Manoy Wilbert Lee is leading the charge for urgent reforms in the country’s healthcare system. With the rise in medical expenses threatening to overwhelm many Filipinos, Lee is calling on the Department of Health (DOH) and PhilHealth to intensify their efforts to expand benefits and fully utilize available funds. A Healthcare Crisis Looming A recent Global Medical Trends Survey by WTW places the Philippines among the Asia Pacific countries with the highest anticipated healthcare cost increases this year, second only to Indonesia. This troubling trend has raised alarms, as Filipinos already grapple with the burden of expensive medical treatments and hospitalization. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee warned. He emphasized that the rising costs would dilute the impact of recent benefit enhancements unless swift and substantial reforms are implemented. PhilHealth’s Half a Trillion Peso Potential PhilHealth has more than ₱500 billion in available funds, aside from its ₱100 billion annual government subsidy. Lee argues that these resources must be mobilized immediately to meet the demands of Universal Health Care. “Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he stressed. Lee’s advocacy has already resulted in historic reforms, including a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits in February 2024 and a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates. While these achievements are significant, he believes there is still much work to be done. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito,” Lee said, urging PhilHealth to implement reforms with urgency. Delays in Promised Reforms During the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations, Lee secured commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. to enhance healthcare services. These commitments included expanded benefits for heart ailments, outpatient emergency care services, and kidney transplants, as well as free diagnostic tests such as CT scans and MRIs. However, many of these promises remain unfulfilled. Lee continues to hold PhilHealth and DOH accountable for their delays, urging them to work overtime if necessary. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of delivering on these commitments without further delay. Achievements in Healthcare Advocacy Lee’s dedication to healthcare reform has already brought tangible benefits to millions of Filipinos. Among his notable accomplishments are: Free dialysis treatments for those in need. Increased breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanded PhilHealth coverage for critical treatments such as heart ailments and kidney transplants. These reforms, while significant, represent only a fraction of Lee’s broader vision for Universal Health Care. A Vision for Free Healthcare At the heart of Lee’s advocacy is his belief that healthcare should be a right, not a privilege. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” underscores his goal of making medicines and treatments accessible to all Filipinos, regardless of their financial circumstances. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared. His relentless efforts have inspired a growing movement among Filipinos who share his vision of an equitable healthcare system. Rallying Filipinos for Change Lee’s message is clear: the fight for better healthcare requires collective action. “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses,” he urged, encouraging Filipinos to join his call for meaningful and lasting reforms. As the country braces for rising healthcare costs, Lee’s leadership offers a beacon of hope. His commitment to holding institutions accountable and pushing for bold reforms ensures that the welfare of every Filipino remains a top priority. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #HealthcareReforms #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthUpdates #UniversalHealthCarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Amid Rising Costs, Manoy Wilbert Lee Demands Swift PhilHealth Reforms 15 Jan 2025 LEE DEMANDS DOH TO PROVIDE MORE EQUIPMENT IN PUBLIC HOSPITALS, SEEKS AMNESTY ON HOSPITALS, DOCTORS WITH UNRESOLVED CASES 09 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs
Manoy Wilbert ‘Wise’ Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs As healthcare costs in the Philippines are projected to rise by 18.3% this year, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee is calling for urgent action. With the Philippines posting one of the highest medical cost increases in Asia Pacific, Lee is urging the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to expedite and expand benefits to alleviate the burden on Filipinos. Healthcare Costs on the Rise The 2024 Global Medical Trends Survey conducted by WTW, a global advisory and solutions company, predicts a sharp increase in healthcare expenses in the Philippines, second only to Indonesia in the Asia Pacific region. The escalating costs threaten to undermine the gains of recent benefit enhancements, leaving many Filipinos vulnerable. “Kung magmamahal pa ang pagpapa-ospital ngayong taon, hindi rin gaanong mararamdaman ang mga dagdag na benepisyong ipinatupad ng PhilHealth,” Lee noted. His appeal to ramp up benefit increases stems from the belief that healthcare must remain accessible despite rising medical costs. Unlocking PhilHealth’s Billions Lee has repeatedly emphasized the need for PhilHealth and DOH to fully utilize the ₱500 billion available in funds, along with the annual government subsidy of over ₱100 billion. “Walang dapat sayangin dahil buhay ng mga kababayan natin ang nakasalalay dito,” he declared, urging both institutions to go above and beyond to meet their mandates. Lee’s consistent advocacy led to a historic 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits in February 2024 and, more recently, a 50% increase covering 9,000 case rates. However, he stresses that these milestones are not enough. “Nadagdagan na ang mga benepisyo, pero kaya pang bilisan at dagdagan ang mga ito,” he said, pushing for continuous improvements to fully realize the objectives of Universal Health Care. Commitments and Challenges The Bicolano lawmaker’s efforts have been pivotal in securing commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. during the 2025 DOH Budget deliberations. These include promises to further enhance benefits and expand coverage for critical treatments such as free dialysis, breast cancer treatment, and outpatient emergency care services. Lee’s advocacy has already resulted in significant improvements, such as: Increasing breast cancer treatment coverage from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Securing free eye checkups, cataract extractions, and prescription glasses. Expanding benefit packages for heart ailments and kidney transplants. Despite these victories, Lee continues to highlight the delays in fulfilling all the agreed-upon reforms. “Kung kailangan mag-overtime ng DOH at PhilHealth, gawin na ito,” he urged, emphasizing the urgency of addressing healthcare gaps. A Vision for Accessible Healthcare Lee’s campaign for healthcare reform is driven by a singular goal: to make medicines and medical treatments free for all Filipinos. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” encapsulates his vision of a government that fully supports its citizens’ health needs. “Patuloy natin itong ipaglalaban dahil ang layunin ko: Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko!” Lee declared passionately. His efforts have inspired a growing movement, with more Filipinos joining his call for equitable, high-quality, and compassionate healthcare services. A Call to Action As Lee looks to the future, he remains steadfast in his mission to build a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino. “Ituloy lang natin ang paniningil at lakasan pa natin ang ating boses,” he urged, calling for collective action to achieve lasting reforms. The fight for better healthcare is far from over, but with leaders like Manoy Wilbert Lee at the forefront, Filipinos can look forward to a future where medical care is not a privilege but a right. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #HealthcareReforms #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthUpdates #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 15 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert 'Wise' Lee: Doubling Down on PhilHealth Benefits Amid Rising Health Care Costs 08 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 Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Healthcare Advocacy in Action: “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko”
Healthcare Advocacy in Action: “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko” In a nation where millions grapple with the challenges of accessing affordable healthcare, Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee stands as a beacon of hope. His relentless advocacy for healthcare reforms has earned him widespread recognition, with his slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” encapsulating his mission to make medicines and treatments accessible to all Filipinos. As PhilHealth rolls out new benefit enhancements, Lee continues to push for more comprehensive reforms, demonstrating that his fight for a healthier Philippines is far from over. A Vision Rooted in Service Lee’s advocacy stems from a deep understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary Filipinos. For years, many have endured the pain of illness without seeking treatment due to the prohibitive cost of healthcare. Lee’s call for free medicines and treatment is not just a political stance but a moral imperative. “Dagdag lang nang dagdag ng mga benepisyo hanggang maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng mga Pilipino,” Lee passionately declared. This vision has driven his efforts to hold the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) and the Department of Health (DOH) accountable for their use of public funds. Breaking Barriers in Healthcare Access The recent enhancements to PhilHealth’s benefits—while a welcome development—are just the tip of the iceberg. These include a 50% increase in case rates for select conditions, expanded packages for heart ailments, and new outpatient services. However, Lee has pointed out that these changes are long overdue and still insufficient to address the healthcare needs of Filipinos. During the 2023 House Plenary Deliberations on the DOH budget, Lee secured critical commitments from DOH Secretary Ted Herbosa and PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma Jr. These include free diagnostic tests like CT scans and MRIs, increased coverage for cancer treatments, and comprehensive plans to reduce out-of-pocket expenses. Yet, many of these promises remain unfulfilled, underscoring the challenges of implementing meaningful reforms. From Advocacy to Action Lee’s influence is evident in the changes that have already taken place. Earlier this year, he championed a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits, breaking a decade-long stagnation in case rate reviews. He also played a pivotal role in expanding coverage for breast cancer treatments, raising the benefit from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million—a change that has brought hope to countless Filipinos battling the disease. Additionally, Lee’s push for free eye checkups and prescription glasses is nearing fruition. These initiatives reflect his broader vision of a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of every Filipino, regardless of their financial situation. Holding Institutions Accountable At the heart of Lee’s advocacy is a demand for accountability. His exposé of billions of pesos in unused PhilHealth funds in 2023 highlighted the inefficiencies within the healthcare system. For Lee, these funds represent missed opportunities to provide critical services to Filipinos in need. “Make it your New Year’s Resolution to not repeat the same mistake of not using the billions of funds for healthcare benefits,” Lee urged PhilHealth and the DOH. His call for proactive healthcare spending is a stark reminder of the consequences of inaction. A Personal Touch to Advocacy What sets Lee apart is his ability to connect with the people he serves. His advocacy is not confined to the halls of Congress but extends to communities where the lack of healthcare access is felt most acutely. By championing causes that directly impact everyday Filipinos, Lee has become a trusted voice in the fight for better healthcare. His slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” is more than a campaign promise—it’s a commitment to ensuring that no Filipino is denied the care they need. Through his actions, Lee has demonstrated that meaningful change is possible, even in the face of systemic challenges. The Road Ahead While recent developments signal progress, Lee remains steadfast in his belief that more must be done. His vision for a healthcare system that provides free medicines and treatments is a lofty goal but one that he is determined to achieve. As he continues to hold institutions accountable and push for more comprehensive reforms, Lee’s leadership offers hope to millions of Filipinos. Empowering a Nation Lee’s advocacy serves as a powerful reminder that healthcare is a fundamental right, not a privilege. By championing policies that prioritize the needs of the people, he is helping to build a healthcare system that truly serves the nation. As his campaign for better healthcare continues, Filipinos can look forward to a future where access to medical care is no longer a luxury but a guarantee. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #GamotMoSagotKo #PhilHealthAdvocacy #HealthcareReforms #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 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 30 Dec 2024 Manoy Wilbert "Wise" Lee: The Voice Behind PhilHealth's New Benefits Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News
Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: The Voice Behind PhilHealth’s New Benefits
Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee: The Voice Behind PhilHealth’s New Benefits In the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine healthcare, one voice stands out as its relentless advocate: Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee. Known for his no-nonsense approach and sharp critiques, Lee has been instrumental in pushing the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) to implement much-needed reforms. While recent enhancements to PhilHealth’s benefits have been welcomed, Lee’s persistent efforts reveal a deeper story of advocacy, accountability, and the fight for a healthier nation. Exposing Unused Billions: A Call for Accountability In September 2023, Lee brought to light a startling revelation: billions of pesos unused PhilHealth funds. This exposé highlighted the stark contrast between available resources and the glaring gaps in healthcare services for millions of Filipinos. Lee’s call to action resonated with the public, amplifying demands for the state health insurer to fulfill its mandate effectively. “Kung mas maagang nagdagdag ng mga benepisyo, hindi na sana umabot sa zero subsidy!” Lee remarked, emphasizing how these unused funds could have significantly alleviated the burden on struggling Filipinos. His stance catalyzed a series of discussions, leading to the eventual approval of new benefit packages. Progress Amidst Challenges PhilHealth recently announced several new benefits, including a 50% increase in case rates for select conditions, improved packages for heart ailments, and expanded outpatient services. These changes, though significant, are only part of the commitments Lee advocated for during the heated budget deliberations with the Department of Health (DOH) last year. Lee has consistently reminded PhilHealth and DOH of their promise to go beyond incremental changes. “Fifty percent across-the-board, hindi lang sa ilang sakit ang napagkasunduan,” Lee stated, underscoring the need for comprehensive reforms that address a broader spectrum of healthcare challenges. His demands include free diagnostic tests like CT scans and MRIs and increased coverage for cancer treatments, among others. Health Advocacy Rooted in Action A staunch health advocate, Lee extends influence beyond exposing inefficiencies. His efforts led to a 30% increase in PhilHealth benefits implemented last February 2024, breaking a decade-long stagnation in case rate reviews. Additionally, his advocacy paved the way for enhanced coverage, including free dialysis and a significant increase in breast cancer treatment benefits—from ₱100,000 to ₱1.4 million. Lee’s contributions don’t stop there. He championed the inclusion of free eye checkups and prescription glasses in PhilHealth benefits, an initiative currently being finalized by PhilHealth for implementation. These additions are gamechangers for many Filipinos who have long struggled with vision-related issues due to the prohibitive cost of care. A Vision for a Healthier Philippines Despite these achievements, Lee remains steadfast in his call for greater accountability and efficiency. “Make it your New Year’s Resolution to not repeat the same mistake of not using the billions of funds for healthcare benefits,” he urged PhilHealth and the DOH, pushing for a culture of proactive healthcare spending. For Lee, healthcare reform isn’t just about numbers; it’s about the lives behind the statistics. His advocacy centers on the daily struggles of Filipinos who endure pain and suffering because they cannot afford basic medical care. “Dagdag lang nang dagdag ng mga benepisyo hanggang maging libre na ang gamot at pagpapagamot ng mga Pilipino,” Lee declared profusely. The Road Ahead Lee’s slogan, “Gamot Mo, Sagot Ko,” encapsulates his vision for a healthcare system that truly serves the people. While the recent enhancements mark a step forward, his tireless efforts remind the nation that there is still much to be done. With his leadership, the fight for better healthcare continues—one policy, one reform, and one life at a time. #ManoyWilbertWiseLee #PhilHealthReforms #HealthcareAdvocacy #GamotMoSagotKo #UniversalHealthcarePH Healthcare Policy Previous Post Latest Posts 06 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert "Wise" Lee: The Voice Behind PhilHealth's New Benefits 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 Categories Healthcare Policy Public Health Initiatives Healthcare Ethics and Legal Issues Healthcare Access and Equity Spread the News