Recto: PhilHealth board neglected duties

Senate President Pro Tempore Ralph Recto stated that the PhilHealth board, which includes five members of President Duterte's Cabinet, has apparently neglected its duties, leading to the state insurer's "implosion."

Recto questioned the board's inaction, noting that it is their responsibility to investigate issues within PhilHealth, not the Senate's.

Whistleblowers in a recent Senate inquiry claimed a "mafia" embedded in PhilHealth stole P15 billion from the agency, and officials were also accused of approving millions of pesos in overpriced gadget, software, and fund releases.

The Philippine Senate has ended its investigation of corruption at PhilHealth and has begun drafting a report to be endorsed to anti-graft and prosecutorial agencies.

Senate President Vicente Sotto III expects PhilHealth officials to face President Duterte's wrath due to exposed lapses and grievances during legislative investigations.

Sotto also stated that PhilHealth President Ricardo Morales and other officials accused of pocketing billions of pesos should prepare their defense at the Ombudsman and Department of Justice.

Senator Panfilo Lacson said Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, who is PhilHealth chairman, has stayed too long at both agencies in different capacities and has admitted his efforts were not good enough.