VP Robredo, Sen. Go call for PhilHealth execs suspension

Vice President Leni Robredo called for the suspension of Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) executives amid ongoing investigations into allegations of widespread corruption within the agency.

Robredo stated that suspending officials during investigations would prevent the compromise of the probe's integrity and demonstrate the government's seriousness in fighting corruption.

This sentiment was also echoed by Senator Christopher "Bong" Go, who believes suspension would allow investigations to proceed smoothly.

PhilHealth chief Ricardo Morales and Executive Vice President Arnel de Jesus notified the Senate of their unfavorable medical conditions, with Morales advising a leave of absence and De Jesus citing an unforeseen medical emergency, ahead of a Senate hearing.

Senator Panfilo Lacson, however, stated that the medical conditions of Morales and De Jesus should not be questioned.

Multiple bodies, including a DOJ-led task force, the Senate, and the House of Representatives, are conducting separate investigations into PhilHealth anomalies.

Filipinos expect corrupt PhilHealth officials to be jailed once the investigations conclude, according to Go.