GMA News
Gordon thinks people are after Duque's post as he faces Ombudsman probe
Senator Richard Gordon believes that individuals may be targeting the position of Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III, who is now the subject of a motu proprio investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman concerning the government's COVID-19 response.
Gordon suggested that the substantial funds available at the DOH and PhilHealth could be a motive for these alleged attempts to unseat Duque.
He reasoned that replacing Duque amidst the COVID-19 pandemic crisis could be more detrimental than beneficial, comparing it to changing horses midstream.
Gordon noted that the challenges faced by the DOH, such as delayed reporting of COVID-19 cases, are also being experienced by other nations.
However, Gordon clarified that he is not defending Duque and that the President has the authority to remove him if clear and undeniable proof of liability is presented.
Topics in this story
Explore more stories about these topics.
🤖
This story was generated by AI to help you understand the key points. For more detailed coverage, please see the news articles from trusted media outlets below.
News Sources
See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian urged Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to take a leave of absence while the Ombudsman investigates alleged irregularities within the Department of Health's COVID-19 response.
Read more →
The Office of the Ombudsman is investigating the Department of Health (DOH) and Secretary Francisco Duque III over alleged anomalies in the COVID-19 response.
+3
Read more →
Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed his frustration with Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, stating he is "tired" of commenting on the DOH chief.
Read more →
President Rodrigo Duterte has publicly defended Health Secretary Francisco Duque III amid an investigation by the Ombudsman into the Department of Health's (DOH) handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read more →
President Rodrigo Duterte expressed confidence in Health Secretary Francisco Duque III's ability to address allegations of irregularities in the Department of Health's (DOH) handling of the COVID-19 crisis.
Read more →