AGRI PARTY-LIST

Manoy Wilbert Lee

REMOVAL OF 45-DAY HOSPITALIZATION CAP MAJOR STEP TOWARD UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE – AGRI PARTY-LIST

REMOVAL OF 45-DAY HOSPITALIZATION CAP MAJOR STEP TOWARD UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE – AGRI PARTY-LIST AGRI Party-list Rep. Manoy Wilbert Lee lauded the removal of the 45-day annual limit on hospital confinements for PhilHealth members and their dependents under PhilHealth Circular No. 2025-007. He described the policy change as a significant step toward comprehensive Universal Health Care, ensuring continuous access to health services without arbitrary limits. Lee emphasized that the previous 45-day cap had been a major concern for Filipinos, particularly those with serious illnesses. “Napakagandang balita nito dahil hindi naman natin ma-i-schedule kung kailan tayo gagaling lalo na sa malulubhang sakit. Malaking kabawasan ito sa pangamba at pasanin ng napakarami nating kababayan sa pagpapa-ospital,” he said. AGRI Party-list, under Lee’s leadership, has been a staunch advocate for expanded health benefits, with recent efforts leading to increased health benefits, free dialysis, eye check-ups, prescription glasses for children, and expanded coverage for various health conditions. Lee also urged the effective implementation of the new policy to ensure that all Filipinos, especially those with chronic or severe health conditions, receive the necessary care without financial constraints. “Patuloy nating ipaglalaban ang mga repormang pagkalusugan hanggang sa makamit natin ang libreng gamot at pagpapagamot na karapatan at deserve ng bawat Pilipino,” AGRI Party-list concluded. AGRI Party-list Rep. Manoy Wilbert Lee welcomed the removal of the 45-day annual limit of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) on hospital confinements for members and their dependents.  According to the Bicolano lawmaker, the new circular—PhilHealth Circular No. 2025-007—which took effect today, is a significant advancement toward achieving comprehensive Universal Health Care in the country.  “This development ensures that all Filipinos, regardless of their medical conditions, have continuous access to necessary health services without the fear of exceeding arbitrary limits,” he said. “Napakagandang balita nito dahil hindi naman natin ma-i-schedule kung kailan tayo gagaling lalo na sa malulubhang sakit. Malaking kabawasan ito sa pangamba at pasanin ng napakarami nating kababayan sa pagpapa-ospital,” he added. Under the previous policy, PhilHealth members were allowed a maximum of 45 days of hospital confinement per year, while the dependents were entitled to a shared additional 45 days annually. Beyond these limits, members had to shoulder the full cost of hospitalization. AGRI Party-list which is running for reelection in the 2025 National and Local Elections, said that the removal of the 45-day hospitalization cap is a giant step towards genuine Universal Health Care.  It then stressed that PhilHealth should ensure the effective implementation of the said policy to have a profound impact on the health care landscape in the Philippines. “We want to ensure that all Filipinos, particularly those with chronic or severe health conditions, receive the necessary care without the added worry of financial constraints,” AGRI Party-list said. “Patuloy nating babantayan ang maayos na implementasyon nito dahil hindi natin hahayaan na maging paasa o fake news ang PhilHealth sa mga kinakailangang serbisyong pangkalusugan,” it added. Earlier, AGRI Party-list blasted PhilHealth amid complaints of patients over the failure to implement PhilHealth’s Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit (OECB) package. Lee wrote a letter to PhilHealth Acting President and Officer-in-Charge Dr. Edwin Mercado on March 23 to seek clarification on the matter and is now waiting for its swift resolution. AGRI Party-list, under Lee’s leadership, was the first to expose that PhilHealth has billions of available funds in September 2023. Lee’s persistent efforts resulted to the implementation of PhilHealth’s increased benefits and free medical services. The said increases include the 30% increase in health benefits which was implemented on February 2024, another 50% increase which started in 2025, 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 the said outpatient emergency care services, among others. “Patuloy nating ipaglalaban ang mga repormang pangkalusugan hanggang sa makamit natin ang libreng gamot at pagpapagamot na karapatan at deserve ng bawat Pilipino. This recent development is a testament to what we can achieve when we prioritize the well-being of our people,” AGRI Party-list stressed. Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 04 Apr 2025 REMOVAL OF 45-DAY HOSPITALIZATION CAP MAJOR STEP TOWARD UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE – AGRI PARTY-LIST 02 Apr 2025 AGRI RENEWS CALL TO PROBE P11-B EXPIRED MEDICINES, VACCINES IN DOH WAREHOUSES, HEALTH FACILITIES 26 Mar 2025 Ayaw natin ng fake news! AGRI PARTY-LIST SLAMS NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF PHILHEALTH ‘OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY CARE BENEFIT’ PACKAGE Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024 2025

AGRI RENEWS CALL TO PROBE P11-B EXPIRED MEDICINES, VACCINES IN DOH WAREHOUSES, HEALTH FACILITIES

AGRI RENEWS CALL TO PROBE P11-B EXPIRED MEDICINES, VACCINES IN DOH WAREHOUSES, HEALTH FACILITIES AGRI Party-list Rep. Wilbert Lee reiterated his call for an investigation into the P11 billion worth of expired medicines and vaccines in Department of Health (DOH) warehouses, following a recent Senate resolution by Senator Joel Villanueva. Lee emphasized that the expiration of essential drugs, including over 7 million vials of COVID-19 vaccines, is a clear case of negligence and misuse of public funds. Lee, who filed House Resolution No. 2117, highlighted the importance of accountability and efficient use of health resources. He also called on the DOH to submit a comprehensive report on the expired supplies and the steps taken to address the issue. AGRI Party-list continues to push for free medicines and healthcare services for all Filipinos, stressing the need for proper government action to ensure public health resources are used effectively. AGRI Party-list Representative Manoy Wilbert Lee reiterated his call to investigate the P11 billion worth of expired medicines and vaccines in Department of Health (DOH) warehouses and health facilities flagged by the Commission on Audit (COA). The Bicolano lawmaker renewed his call after Senator Joel Villanueva recently filed Senate Resolution No. 1326 to probe the said issue. “Buo ang suporta natin sa panawagang ito ni Senator Joel Villanueva para imbestigahan din sa Senado ang malaking kapabayaan at malaking kasalanan na ito sa taumbayan,” Lee said.  “Such negligence is both unacceptable and unlawful. Pondo ito na nasayang at serbisyong ipinagkait para sa kalusugan ng mga Pilipino,” he added.  Lee filed House Resolution No. 2117 on December 2024, stressing that the expiration of these essential drugs, medicines and vaccines, which the DOH allowed to deteriorate without proper utilization or timely action, constitutes a clear dereliction of duty and a violation of their mandate. According to the COA audit report for the year 2023, P11.18 billion worth of drugs, medicines and medical supplies, including over 7 million vials of COVID-19 vaccines that were unused, expired in DOH warehouses and health facilities. Among the reasons cited for such wastage are inadequate procurement planning and poor distribution and monitoring systems. AGRI Party-list, which is running for reelection in the 2025 National and Local Elections underscored the importance of probing this issue to hold the involved officials and personnel accountable, identify underlying systemic issues, and ensure that public health resources are utilized efficiently, properly accounted for, and distributed in a timely and effective manner. It also called on the DOH anew to submit a comprehensive report to Congress detailing the status of all expired supplies, including COVID-19 vaccines, and the steps taken to address the situation. It can be recalled that during the last House Plenary Deliberations on the DOH Budget last September, Lee inquired about the lack of medicines in public hospitals. “Mayroong bilyon-bilyong pondo para sa mga gamot pero bakit kinakailangan pang bumili ng mga kababayan natin sa labas ng ospital? Bakit kailangan pa nilang gumastos para sa gamot kahit na sa charity wards sila naka-admit? Isa pa ito sa dumaragdag sa out-of-pocket expenses nila; dagdag isipin ng may sakit; dagdag pasanin ng pamilya,” AGRI Party-list earlier pointed out. AGRI Party-list has been pushing for free medicines and healthcare services. Through Lee’s leadership, AGRI Party-list was the first to expose that the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) had billions of available funds in September 2023, which then led to the implementation of PhilHealth’s increased benefits after over a decade that it was not updated and no longer responsive to the hospitalization cost of the beneficiaries. “Hindi magiging posible ang ipinaglalaban nating libreng gamot at libreng pagpapagamot kung magpapatuloy ang kapalpakang ito sa gobyerno. Dapat may managot sa mga kapabayaan na nagkakait ng mga serbisyong pangkalusugan para sa mga Pilipino. Buhay at kabuhayan ang nakataya dito,” AGRI Party-list stated. Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 02 Apr 2025 AGRI RENEWS CALL TO PROBE P11-B EXPIRED MEDICINES, VACCINES IN DOH WAREHOUSES, HEALTH FACILITIES 26 Mar 2025 Ayaw natin ng fake news! AGRI PARTY-LIST SLAMS NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF PHILHEALTH ‘OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY CARE BENEFIT’ PACKAGE 02 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024 2025

Ayaw natin ng fake news! AGRI PARTY-LIST SLAMS NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF PHILHEALTH ‘OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY CARE BENEFIT’ PACKAGE

Ayaw natin ng fake news! AGRI PARTY-LIST SLAMS NON-IMPLEMENTATION OF PHILHEALTH ‘OUTPATIENT EMERGENCY CARE BENEFIT’ PACKAGE AGRI Party-list Rep. Manoy Wilbert Lee criticized PhilHealth for not implementing its Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit (OECB), which took effect in January 2024. The package, covering outpatient services like diagnostic tests and emergency treatments, should not require hospital admission. Lee revealed that despite official announcements, hospitals are not honoring the benefit, leaving patients with zero PhilHealth coverage for emergency room expenses. He called for immediate action, stressing the importance of fulfilling PhilHealth’s promises to ease the burden on members. AGRI urges PhilHealth to swiftly address the issue and ensure the effective rollout of OECB, highlighting the need for accessible health benefits for all Filipinos. AGRI Party-list Rep. Manoy Wilbert Lee blasted the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation amid complaints of patients over the failure to implement PhilHealth’s Outpatient Emergency Care Benefit (OECB) package. The OECB package, which took effect in January this year under PhilHealth Circular No. 2024-0033, covers all outpatient services and commodities provided in PhilHealth-accredited healthcare facilities—rendered at the Emergency Department and its extension facilities— including services given before a patient’s arrival, during transport to a health facility, diagnostic tests such as X-ray, MRI, CT Scan and other essential emergency services and medicines. According to the said PhilHealth Circular, this much needed benefit package do not require hospital admission or confinement. “Ayaw natin ng fake news lalo na sa serbisyong pangkalusugan. Hindi natin dapat paasahin sa mga benepisyo ang ating mga kababayan na matagal nang pinagkaitan ng serbisyo na deserve at karapatan nilang matanggap lalo na kung kaya namang ibigay ng PhilHealth sa bilyon-bilyong pondo na meron sila,” Lee said.  The Bicolano lawmaker revealed that he wrote a letter to PhilHealth Acting President and Officer-in-Charge Dr. Edwin Mercado on March 23 to seek clarification on the matter. In the said letter, Lee cited two billing statements from two hospitals where PhilHealth coverage for the emergency room expenses of two different patients was zero, reflecting that the benefit package has not been honored or implemented. “It is regrettable and unacceptable that despite the official announcement of PhilHealth, this ‘outpatient emergency care service’ is neither operational nor available to PhilHealth members in several, if not all hospital across the country,” the solon pointed out. “Time is of the essence on this matter. As time progresses without addressing this issue, every PhilHealth member rushed to every emergency room is burdened with the additional cost to pay,” he added. AGRI Party-list which is running for reelection in the 2025 National and Local elections underscored the importance of addressing this issue the soonest possible time. It urged PhilHealth to update on the status of the outpatient emergency care benefit package and ensure its swift and effective implementation, saying, “It is imperative that the PhilHealth management takes immediate responsibility and addresses this critical issue without further delay.” “Seryoso tayo sa layunin nating libreng gamot at pagpapagamot para sa bawat Pilipino para mabawasan ang kanilang araw-araw na pasanin at pangamba. Kaya kung ano ang ipinangakong dagdag na serbisyong pangkalusugan, dapat tuparin at maramdaman ng bawat miyembro at mga benepisyaryo,” AGRI Party-list said. “Filipinos deserve better, so we must demand better services. Noon pa po natin ipinapanawagan at ipinaglalaban, at kamakailan sa oral arguments ukol sa paglilipat ng pondo sa PhilHealth, ay sinang-ayunan din ng mga Mahistrado sa Korte Suprema na dapat gamitin ang bilyon-bilyong pondo sa kalusugan para sa kalusugan kesa mga proyektong wala naman mamamatay kung hindi gawin,” it added. AGRI Party-list, under Lee’s leadership, was the first to expose that PhilHealth has billions of available funds in September 2023. Lee’s persistent efforts resulted to the implementation of PhilHealth’s increased benefits and free medical services. The said increases include the 30% increase in health benefits which was implemented on February 2024, another 50% increase which started in 2025, 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 the said outpatient emergency care services, among others. Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 29 Mar 2025 Ayaw natin ng fake news! 02 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 29 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Cold storage facility for agricultural products, backed by Manoy Wilbert Lee’s P3B initiative.

Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring

Manoy Wilbert Lee Pushes for P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Long-Term Food Security Solutions The Department of Agriculture (DA) has announced the construction of 99 cold storage facilities nationwide with a P3 billion budget. Manoy Wilbert Lee, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant, welcomed this move but stressed that supply monitoring and anti-hoarding measures are essential for real impact. Manoy Wilbert Lee: Cold Storage is Only Part of the Solution According to Manoy Wilbert Lee, the lack of cold storage facilities has long been a challenge for local farmers. “This is a great initiative, but it must go hand-in-hand with strict supply monitoring. If hoarders and price manipulators continue unchecked, these facilities will not prevent food price surges,” he warned. Post-Harvest Support Act: Expanding Agricultural Infrastructure Through House Bill No. 3958, also known as the Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act, the DA, together with DPWH, DAR, and DTI, will provide cold storage, dryers, threshers, and transport equipment to farmer cooperatives. This initiative aligns with Manoy Wilbert Lee’s long-term vision for a stronger agricultural sector, reducing post-harvest losses and ensuring better income for local food producers. Preventing Food Hoarding and Price Manipulation Manoy Wilbert Lee has been vocal against hoarders and agricultural economic saboteurs who manipulate food prices for profit. “The Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law is in place, but we need to enforce it effectively. Supply monitoring should be strict to prevent artificial food shortages and keep prices stable,” he emphasized. Food Security Emergency: Temporary Solution vs. Long-Term Strategy With growing concerns over food supply, Manoy Wilbert Lee acknowledged that the Food Security Emergency could provide short-term relief but stressed the importance of a sustainable strategy. “Declaring a Food Security Emergency may help temporarily, but consistent support for local food producers is the real solution to ensuring affordable and stable food supply for all Filipinos,” he said. Investing in Farmers is Investing in National Security Manoy Wilbert Lee firmly believes that food security is a national security issue. He calls on the government to prioritize funding for farmers and local food producers, emphasizing that they are the key to long-term agricultural stability. “With proper investment in post-harvest facilities, supply monitoring, and agricultural policies, we can protect Filipino consumers from high food prices while ensuring farmers earn fair income,” he concluded. #ManoyWilbertLee #AGRIPartylist #ColdStorage #FoodSecurity #FoodAffordability #FarmersSupport Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 06 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 29 Jan 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 27 Jan 2025 AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Filipino farmers benefiting from improved post-harvest facilities under Manoy Wilbert Lee’s agricultural advocacy.

Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring

Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial aspirant Manoy Wilbert Lee welcomed the Department of Agriculture’s (DA) initiative to allocate P3 billion for the construction of 99 cold storage facilities across the country. However, he underscored the need for comprehensive supply monitoring to prevent price surges in agricultural products. Manoy Wilbert Lee Calls for Enhanced Post-Harvest Facilities “For years, we have pushed for increased funding for post-harvest facilities, particularly cold storage units, to match pre-harvest services. This initiative is long overdue,” said Manoy Wilbert Lee. Aside from advocating for larger budget allocations during budget deliberations, AGRI Party-list has proposed legislation to boost support for cold storage facilities, dryers, threshers, and transport equipment—all crucial for improving farmers’ income and stabilizing food prices. Strict Supply Monitoring to Prevent Hoarding and Price Manipulation Despite the promising development, Manoy Wilbert Lee emphasized that these efforts would be ineffective without a strict and efficient monitoring system. “These cold storage units will have little impact if there is no effective supply monitoring system in place. Hoarders and price manipulators continue to exploit agricultural supply gaps, driving food prices up while Filipinos struggle with affordability,” he warned. Legislative Efforts to Strengthen Food Security As the principal author of Republic Act No. 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Law, Manoy Wilbert Lee continues to push for reforms that will protect farmers and consumers from unfair trade practices. One of the key measures proposed is House Bill No. 3958, or the Post-Harvest Facilities Support Act, which mandates the DA—along with the DPWH, DAR, and DTI—to provide post-harvest equipment and storage facilities to farmer cooperatives. Food Security Emergency: A Short-Term Fix The looming Food Security Emergency has prompted discussions about short-term and long-term solutions for food affordability and supply stability. “We support the Food Security Emergency declaration, but it’s only a temporary fix. Long-term strategies are needed to ensure sustained support for Filipino farmers and local food producers,” Lee stressed. Food Security as National Security “Food security is a national security concern. Farmers are our ‘food security soldiers.’ We must prioritize funding, proper infrastructure, and immediate action to ensure a stable and affordable food supply for all Filipinos,” Manoy Wilbert Lee concluded. #ManoyWilbertLee #AGRIPartylist #SupportFarmers #FoodSecurity #ColdStorage #AgriculturalReform Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 06 Feb 2025 Manoy Wilbert Lee Urges DA to Fast-Track Implementation of P3-B Cold Storage Facilities and Strengthen Supply Monitoring 27 Jan 2025 AGRI TO DA: FAST-TRACK BUILDING P3-B WORTH OF COLD STORAGES, IMPLEMENT COMPREHENSIVE SUPPLY MONITORING TO AVOID PRICE SURGE 18 Jan 2025 Better Transport Policy for Murang Pagkain: AGRI Party-list’s Vision Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Traffic congestion in Metro Manila showing the need for transport efficiency.

Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain

Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain AGRI Party-list, led by Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Wilbert Lee, is advocating for opening the EDSA Busway during night hours for agricultural and food delivery vehicles. This initiative addresses logistical barriers, reduces costs, and secures murang pagkain for Filipino families. Why Efficient Transport Matters Metro Manila’s notorious traffic congestion significantly hampers the timely delivery of perishable goods. This leads to food spoilage, waste, and increased prices for both producers and consumers due to lack of supply. By leveraging the EDSA Busway for agricultural deliveries during off-peak hours, AGRI’s proposal ensures that fresh food supplies reach markets efficiently and affordably. Under House Resolution No. 2162, AGRI suggests granting agricultural vehicles access to the EDSA Busway between 10 PM and 5 AM, including weekends and holidays. This dedicated timeframe prioritizes essential food deliveries while minimizing disruptions to public transportation. “Efficient transport will ensure timely deliveries, stabilize food prices, and secure murang pagkain,” said Wilbert Lee, emphasizing the critical role of effective logistics in achieving food security. Benefits for Farmers and Food Security The resolution highlights the importance of supporting farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers. Delays in transporting goods often result in financial losses for these essential contributors to the economy. By streamlining logistics, AGRI’s plan enables them to earn fair profits while ensuring consumers enjoy affordable, fresh food. “When logistics work efficiently, everyone benefits,” Lee added. “Farmers earn more, consumers pay less, and food waste is minimized. Murang pagkain becomes achievable through practical and inclusive solutions.” Collaborative Implementation To implement this policy effectively, AGRI calls for close collaboration with key agencies such as the Department of Transportation (DOTr), the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA). Proper coordination ensures that agricultural vehicles can seamlessly integrate into the EDSA Busway system without causing disruptions to public transport operations. The resolution also emphasizes consultations with stakeholders in the agriculture and food sectors to identify and address logistical challenges. Such partnerships are critical to optimizing the food supply chain, especially in highly urbanized areas like Metro Manila. Addressing Price Manipulation and Market Hoarding In addition to this proposal, AGRI Party-list has been proactive in addressing other factors affecting food prices. Recently, AGRI filed House Resolution No. 2158 to investigate the sudden spike in tomato prices and expose the possible role of hoarders, cartels, and price manipulators. By tackling these issues head on, AGRI aims to protect both consumers and producers from exploitative practices. The EDSA Busway initiative complements these efforts by removing logistical barriers that inflate food prices. With improved transport systems, agricultural goods can reach markets more efficiently, reducing the opportunities for manipulation by middlemen. A Vision for Affordable Food AGRI’s strong advocacy for murang pagkain aligns with its commitment to food security and rural development. By empowering farmers, improving logistics, and reducing costs, the party-list envisions a future where affordable food is accessible to all Filipinos. “Murang pagkain starts with a system that works for everyone—farmers, transport operators, and consumers,” AGRI emphasized. “It’s not just a policy goal; it’s a commitment to the welfare of every Filipino family.” Murang Pagkain for All Filipinos The AGRI Party-list calls for swift government action to implement the EDSA Busway proposal. By prioritizing agricultural vehicles during off-peak hours, the policy ensures that fresh, affordable food reaches Filipino households without delay. “Together, we can make murang pagkain a reality for all,” AGRI concluded, urging stakeholders and policymakers to support this transformative initiative. Through collaborative efforts and strategic planning, the vision of affordable food can be achieved, uplifting lives and strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector.   #MurangPagkain #EDSAAccess #FoodTransport #SupportFarmers #AffordableFood Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 20 Jan 2025 Unrestricting EDSA Busway: A Step Towards Murang Pagkain 15 Jan 2025 Murang Pagkain, 'wag hulihin!AGRI PL to DOTr: OPEN EDSA BUSWAY FOR AGRI, FOOD DELIVERY VEHICLES AT NIGHT 06 Jan 2025 Dagdagan, hindi pabayaan!AGRI SEEKS PROBE ON THE CLOSURE OF SMALL-SCALE RICE, CORN MILLS IN 1K BARANGAYS Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025

AGRI Party-list Advocates for Full Protection of Agriculture Budget in 2025 The AGRI Party-list is rallying lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives to safeguard the agriculture sector’s budget as the Bicameral Conference Committee prepares to finalize the 2025 General Appropriations Bill. With the nation’s food security and rural livelihoods on the line, AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee emphasized the critical importance of maintaining sufficient funding for agriculture.“Cutting the budget for agriculture at this critical time would severely undermine our ability to achieve food security and support millions of farmers, fisherfolk, and local food producers. These are the ‘food security soldiers’ who sustain our nation’s food supply, and they deserve more, not less, support from the government,” Lee said. He stressed that investing in agriculture is essential not only for economic recovery but also for long-term national stability. The Bicameral Conference Committee, tasked with reconciling Senate and House versions of the ₱6.352-trillion National Budget, will convene next week. AGRI Party-list expressed concerns over the possible reduction in allocations for agriculture, highlighting the severe consequences of underfunding in the face of rising global food prices and intensifying climate change.“Reducing the agriculture budget is a step backward,” AGRI said in a statement. “This is not just about farmers; this is about safeguarding the country’s food supply from external shocks and ensuring the resilience of our local food systems. Cutting corners in agriculture funding could leave millions vulnerable to food insecurity.”#SupportOurFarmers #FoodSecurityPH #WiseLeadership Advocacy Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 08 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI Party-list Urges Unity in Protecting Agriculture Budget for Filipino Farmers

AGRI Party-list Urges Unity in Protecting Agriculture Budget for Filipino Farmers As the Bicameral Conference Committee deliberates on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill, the AGRI Party-list has urged Congress to stand united in preserving the agriculture sector’s budget. AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee underscored the importance of prioritizing agriculture funding to ensure food security and improve the livelihoods of millions of farmers, fisherfolk, and food producers across the country. “Without sufficient investment in agriculture, we jeopardize not just the livelihood of millions but the nation’s food supply. If we are serious about having affordable food on every Filipino family’s table, agriculture must be a priority,” Lee said, stressing the importance of supporting rural communities that form the backbone of the country’s food production. AGRI Party-list warned that reduced allocations could undermine efforts to modernize the agriculture sector, leaving it vulnerable to rising food costs and external shocks. The group also criticized the continued underfunding of agriculture, noting that it remains a small fraction of the national budget despite its critical role in national development. “Providing adequate funding for agriculture will not only ensure higher incomes for food producers but also incentivize them to boost production. More supply in the market leads to lower prices, benefitting the entire nation,” AGRI explained. The group called on lawmakers to recognize the broader implications of their budget decisions, emphasizing that investing in agriculture is a win for all Filipinos. “Sa suporta sa agrikultura, panalo ang masa!” AGRI concluded. #FarmersFirst #FoodSecurityNow #WiseAdvocacy Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 08 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025

AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 AGRI Party-list has called on lawmakers from both the Senate and the House of Representatives to ensure that the agriculture sector’s budget remains intact as the Bicameral Conference Committee deliberates on the 2025 General Appropriations Bill. According to AGRI Party-list Representative and Senatorial Aspirant Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee, sufficient funding for agriculture is essential to achieving food security and supporting the livelihood of millions of farmers, fisherfolk and local food producers. “Cutting the budget for agriculture at this critical time would jeopardize our efforts to achieve food security and improve the well-being of our rural communities. Deserve ng ating local food producers, na siyang ating ‘food security soldiers’, ng dagdag na suporta lalo na’t sila ang pinagmumulan ng pagkain ng ating bansa,” the Bicolano lawmaker said. The Bicameral Conference Committee is set to reconcile the differences between the Senate and House versions of the ₱6.352 National Budget next week. AGRI Party-list stressed that underfunding the agriculture sector could have long-term consequences, particularly in the face of rising global food prices and climate change. “Investing in agriculture is not just about supporting our farmers, fisherfolk and local food producers, it’s about safeguarding our nation’s food supply against external shocks. A reduced budget would be a step backward in addressing these challenges,” AGRI said in a statement. It further argued that proposed allocations are insufficient to meet the needs of local food producers and address pressing issues such as low productivity, aging infrastructure, and the lack of post-harvest facilities. “The agriculture budget remains a small fraction of the total National Budget and is less than half of the ₱500 billion the DA was originally requesting for 2025,” the Party-list stressed.  “Kung seryoso tayo na magkaroon ng murang pagkain sa hapag ng bawat pamilyang Pilipino, dapat maging prayoridad ang dagdag na suporta sa mga magsasaka, mangingisda, at buong sektor ng agrikultura. Sa pamamagitan nito, hindi lang mapapataas ang kanilang kita, mapapaunlad din ang produksyon, dadami ang supply, at bababa ang presyo ng pagkain at iba pang bilihin sa merkado,” it added. AGRI, which has been at the forefront of fighting for a better agriculture sector in the country, urged both Congress  chambers to work together to prioritize the needs of local food producers in the final version of the budget. “This is not just about passing the budget law. It’s about making a commitment to the millions of Filipinos who rely on agriculture for their livelihood. Sa suporta sa agrikultura, panalo ang masa!” AGRI stressed.  Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 09 Dec 2024 AGRI PL URGES SENATE, HREP TO PROTECT AGRI BUDGET FOR 2025 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024

Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list

Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list AGRI Party-list, led by Cong. Manoy Wilbert “Wise” Lee, is championing the expansion of crop insurance to protect farmers and achieve food security in the wake of recent typhoons. House Bill No. 7387, which AGRI authored, proposes significant reforms to the Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) to include not just palay but also other crops, livestock, aquaculture, and farm infrastructure. “Expanding crop insurance ensures that farmers are compensated for their losses, allowing them to recover and continue their essential role in feeding the nation,” Lee said. AGRI also stressed the need for PCIC to intensify outreach programs and bring services directly to disaster-stricken communities through mobile offices. The party-list highlighted how protecting farmers’ livelihoods can lower food costs for all Filipinos. “When farmers are supported, they produce more. Increased supply leads to lower food prices, benefiting every household in the country,” AGRI said in a statement. As the bill awaits Senate action, AGRI called on legislators to prioritize its passage, emphasizing the measure’s role in alleviating farmers’ financial woes and securing the nation’s food supply. #FoodSecurityPH #SupportOurFarmers #WiseLeadership Previous Activities Share the News! Previous Post Latest Posts​ 28 Nov 2024 Expanded Crop Insurance Key to Food Security, Says AGRI Party-list 26 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Urges Senate to Prioritize Crop Insurance Expansion 25 Nov 2024 AGRI Party-list Pushes for Expanded Crop Insurance Amid Calamities Categories Activities Advocacy Legislation Support Previous Activities 2024