Manila Bulletin
Duque had no hand in IRM implementation - Lacson
Senator Richard Gordon stated that the Senate inquiry into PhilHealth corruption allegations did not find sufficient evidence to file criminal charges against Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
Gordon expressed reservations about the committee report recommending malversation and graft charges against Duque and other officials related to PhilHealth's interim reimbursement mechanism (IRM).
He emphasized the importance of concrete evidence before filing accusations, noting that Duque was absent and did not participate in IRM discussions.
Senator Panfilo Lacson also believes the evidence gathered during Senate hearings would not be enough to implicate Duque in the "improper and illegal" implementation of the IRM, stating Duque had no hand in the IRM's illegal implementation or the procurement of overpriced IT equipment.
Lacson acknowledged that the Senate President may have seen other evidence and that the Senate, as a collegial body, would follow the majority's decision.
Lacson suggested that administrative charges might be filed against Duque if command responsibility is considered.
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The Senate Committee of the Whole recommended filing malversation and other criminal charges against Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and resigned PhilHealth president and chief executive officer Ricardo Morales for alleged improper and illegal implementation of the Interim Reimbursement Mechanism (IRM).
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Health Secretary Francisco Duque III expressed disappointment over the Senate's recommendation to file criminal charges against him concerning the PhilHealth Interim Reimbursement Mechanism (IRM).
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The Senate has adopted a committee report recommending that former PhilHealth chief Ricardo Morales and Health Secretary Francisco Duque III be charged with alleged irregularities.
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Health Secretary Francisco Duque III has welcomed a Senate inquiry into his public service record, stating he is open to consequences if evidence points to his involvement in PhilHealth issues.
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Senator Richard Gordon refuted claims that his committee's recommendation to file charges against former officials of the Aquino administration was a tactic to deflect attention from current allies of President Duterte implicated in PhilHealth corruption.
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