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Drilon wants PhilHealth revamp amid 'overpriced' test kits mess
Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon is calling for a revamp of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) due to an alleged overpricing scandal involving its COVID-19 testing packages.
Drilon believes a specific group within PhilHealth is responsible for setting unreasonable prices for these test packages, suggesting a network with hospitals and service providers.
He pointed out that this is not the first time PhilHealth has faced irregularities, citing the previous "ghost dialysis" controversy.
Drilon urged PhilHealth to lower the cost of its COVID-19 test packages to P3,500, aligning with the rate agreed upon with the Philippine Red Cross.
He stated that there is prima facie evidence of an anomaly, even if the intention to overprice was not proven.
Drilon emphasized the need for reorganization within PhilHealth and for corruption cases to be filed if found.
He also highlighted the crucial role of media in guarding the investigation to ensure it is not forgotten.
Furthermore, Drilon suggested that PhilHealth president and CEO Ricardo Morales and Health Secretary Francisco Duque III could be held liable for negligence in relation to the alleged overpricing.
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Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon welcomed PhilHealth's decision to lower its COVID-19 test package price by 50 percent, but insists the agency should peg it at a much lower rate.
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PhilHealth has reduced its COVID-19 testing rate to P4,210, a move welcomed by Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon.
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Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon warns PhilHealth of potential criminal liability due to alleged overpricing of COVID-19 test packages amounting to P8,150 per test.
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President Duterte has ordered an investigation into the alleged overpriced medical equipment and test kits purchased by the government for its COVID-19 response.
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Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque will forward the issue of alleged overpricing in PhilHealth's COVID-19 testing packages to the Office of the Special Assistant to the President (OSAP).
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