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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Philhealth whistleblowers should be under WPP --Sotto

Philhealth whistleblowers should be under WPP --Sotto

Published Aug 11, 2020 09:32 pm

Senate President Vicente Sotto III has formally recommended the inclusion of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) whistleblowers in the government's witness protection program.

Sen. Vicente Sotto III (Senate of the Philippines / MANILA BULLETIN)

Before suspending the Senate Committee of the Whole's legislative inquiry on the alleged irregularities in the PhilHealth, Sotto said he is approving the proposal for the grant of protection to former PhilHealth anti-fraud officer Thorsson Keith, PhilHealth board member Alejandro Cabading, and former head executive assistant Etrobal Laborte.

The three PhilHealth insiders spoke about the fresh allegations of corruption within the state insurer. They had asked for protection from the Senate due to alleged threats to their lives.

"The Secretariat is hereby instructed to communicate to the Secretary of Justice that the Senate President has approved the recommendation that following witnesses in the legislative investigation of the PhilHealth be admitted in the Witness Protection, Security and Benefit Program in accordance to the Section 4 under Republic Act 6981," Sotto said before naming Keith, Cabading and Laborte.

Earlier in the hearing, the Senate approved the grant of a legislative immunity to the three witnesses so they could be protected from possible charges that may arise from their testimonies.

Under the RA 6891, persons and their family members who are in danger may apply for admission in the Department of Justice's Witness Protection Security and Benefit Program

These include witnesses in congressional investigation, "upon the recommendation of the legislative committee where his testimony is needed and with the approval of the Senate President or the Speaker of the House of Representatives, as the case may be."

Under the program, the witness will be provided security protection and escort services, immunity from prosecution or penalties for transactions, documents or testimonies that will be produced, among several other benefits.

Witnesses who refuse to testify, on the other hand, may be arrested or detained and prosecuted for perjury or contempt.

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