Philippine News Agency
Duque needs to do his job amid Covid-19 crisis: Palace
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.
Roque stated that Duque serves at the pleasure of President Duterte and will address allegations in the proper forum, emphasizing the need to allow him to work during this challenging time.
Duque recently faced criticism for his statement regarding the "second wave" of COVID-19 infections, which he later clarified as the "first major wave of sustained community transmission."
Senator Joel Villanueva described Duque's pronouncements as "unreliable and incredible" following the Health chief's backtrack.
Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri advised Duque to ensure accuracy and clarity in his messaging to avoid confusing the public and undermining the efforts of the coronavirus task force.
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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 Duterte advised Health Secretary Francisco Duque III not to be sensitive to criticism and to remain firm in his beliefs, even if unpopular.
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Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon believes that Health Secretary Francisco Duque III is a hindrance to the government's campaign against COVID-19.
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Presidential spokesperson Harry Roque reiterated that the Philippines is still in the first wave of COVID-19, clarifying President Duterte's stance against Health Secretary Francisco Duque III's earlier statement about a second wave.
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Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea and Department of Interior and Local Government Secretary Eduardo Año disputed Health Secretary Francisco Duque III's claim that the Philippines is experiencing its second wave of COVID-19 infections.
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