Tensions flared at the House of Representatives Wednesday night as the deliberation on the Department of Health’s (DOH) budget ended abruptly. Agri Partylist Rep. Wilbert Lee unexpectedly took the microphone from Northern Samar First District Congressman Paul Daza, directing his attention to Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco.
This sudden move led Deputy Majority Leader and Iloilo Representative Janette Garin to immediately push for the termination of the interpellation period. “We join the minority in their motion to terminate the period of interpellation and debate… so move, Mr. Speaker,” Garin stated quickly.
Rep. Lee, who had previously raised concerns about PhilHealth’s lack of coverage for critical medical treatments, was reportedly attempting to further question the quorum. However, his objections were overruled, and the deliberations were terminated.
“With the joint motion to terminate the interpellation to the proposed budget of the Department of Health, is there any objection? The chair hears none. The interpellations on the proposed budget of the Department of Health is hereby terminated. Session suspended,” Frasco declared.
Despite Lee’s protests, the DOH budget seemed to have garnered approval as co-sponsors like BHW Party-list Rep. Angelica Natasha Co and Marikina Rep. Stella Quimbo were seen celebrating with fellow lawmakers.
In explaining his Yes vote, Lee clarified his gratitude towards House Speaker Martin Romualdez. “Nagpapasalamat po tayo muli sa ating House Speaker. Mayroon po tayong kasabihan, he who has help has hope and he who has hope has everything,” Lee said.
The ₱6.352-trillion national budget for 2025 was approved on its third and final reading, with 285 voting in favor and 3 opposing.
