Manila Bulletin
Frustrated over Duque's refusal to quit, Sotto says he is 'tired' of talking about beleaguered DOH chief
Senate President Vicente Sotto III expressed his frustration with Health Secretary Francisco Duque III, stating he is "tired" of commenting on the DOH chief.
Sotto believes Duque should consider resigning to spare President Duterte from further predicament regarding his tenure.
Senator Francis Pangilinan reiterated the call for Duque's resignation, contrasting it with the dismissal of Dr. Tony Leachon.
Senator Sherwin Gatchalian suggested Duque take a leave of absence while the Ombudsman investigates.
The Office of the Ombudsman has formed fact-finding teams to investigate alleged irregularities by DOH officials, including Duque, concerning pandemic response.
These investigations will focus on delayed procurement of PPEs, lapses leading to health worker deaths, inaction on financial aid for infected and fallen medical workers, and confusing reporting of COVID-19 cases and deaths.
Despite the mounting calls and the Ombudsman's investigation, President Duterte has chosen to retain Duque as Health Secretary.
The DOH, however, opposed the appeals for Duque's resignation or leave, stating he is an important leader who commands respect and confidence from his staff.
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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.
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Vice President Leni Robredo stated that policy reforms are more crucial than replacing Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to enhance the government's COVID-19 response.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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