Philippine News Agency
Cabinet members serve 'at the pleasure' of President: Palace
Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque stated that all Cabinet members, including Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, serve at the pleasure of President Duterte and can be removed if the President loses trust and confidence in them.
Roque made this clarification in response to reports that President Duterte was considering a replacement for Duque.
Lawmakers renewed calls for Duque's resignation after the DOH was accused of overpricing PhilHealth's Covid-19 testing packages.
He emphasized that as long as a Cabinet member has not been removed, it signifies that they still possess the President's trust and confidence.
Previously, Malacañang defended Duque, urging that he be allowed to perform his duties despite calls for his removal.
Roque had also stated that Duque should be allowed to continue his work during the health emergency.
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Malacañang, through Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, has defended Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, urging the public to let him focus on his duties during the COVID-19 emergency.
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Private hospitals are asking President Duterte to replace Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, believing he is exhausted and unable to effectively lead the country's COVID-19 response.
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Senators are questioning Health Secretary Francisco Duque III's conflicting statements and performance concerning the COVID-19 pandemic, with some renewing calls for his resignation.
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President Rodrigo Duterte has dismissed Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Assistant Secretary Kristoffer James Purisima due to "lack of trust and confidence."
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