DOH chief optimistic new PhilHealth head will fight corruption

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III expressed optimism that Dante Gierran, the newly appointed head of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth), will address corruption within the agency.

Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra defended President Duterte's decision to appoint Gierran, citing his administrative skills from his time as NBI Director and emphasizing that PhilHealth functions more as an insurance provider than a healthcare institution.

Guevarra assured that Gierran's lack of health expertise does not make him less qualified for the top executive position.

Gierran, a lawyer, accountant, and retired NBI Director, replaced Ricardo Morales, who resigned amid investigations into alleged anomalies.

Gierran acknowledged apprehension about the role due to his lack of public health expertise but has the President's support.

The appointment of Gierran as CEO and president is still subject to election by the PhilHealth board.

Justice Secretary Guevarra convenes Task Force PhilHealth, which is investigating anomalies at the government corporation and is composed of several government agencies.