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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Morales' absence won't affect senate hearing on alleged PhilHealth anomalies

Morales' absence won't affect senate hearing on alleged PhilHealth anomalies

Published Aug 10, 2020 12:18 pm

Senate President Vicente Sotto III said on Monday that the plan of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation chief Ricardo Morales to take a medical leave will not affect their investigation on the alleged irregularities and rampant corruption within the agency.

Morales had announced in a television interview that he has filed a request for medical leave as advised by his doctor.

"That's fine. It won't stop our inquiry and other witnesses and testimonies from coming out. It won't also stop the filing of charges against erring officials of Philhealth if warranted," Sotto said in a text message when asked about Morales' decision.

Sotto, on the other hand, rejected Morales' statement on Sunday that his privacy was breached by the release of his health condition.

"I've said it before, when you hold a high public office, you are a servant of, and answerable to, the people. There is no privacy! If you cannot stand the heat, get out of the kitchen!" Sotto said in a separate text message.

The PhilHealth president and chief executive officer has been told to take a leave of absence due to lymphoma, as disclosed in a medical certificate provided to the Senate Committee of the Whole amid its legislative inquiry on the fresh controversies hounding the state insurer.

"As President and Chief Executive, it is my duty to represent the corporation while still physically capable. I regret that my privacy was not respected," Morales had said.

The PhilHealth said Morales was diagnosed with cancer in February and has since been undergoing chemotherapy. Despite this, he continued to hold office against medical advice, said the agency.

Morales assured that he still be participating in the Senate hearing on Tuesday, August 11, although he would only be attending virtually due to his immunocompromised state.

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