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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Gierran to seek advice of ex-PhilHealth chief Morales

Gierran to seek advice of ex-PhilHealth chief Morales

Published Sep 3, 2020 03:59 pm

Newly-designated Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) President Dante Gierran said he is determined to do a good job as he dismissed those who are critical of his background.

Former National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Director Dante Gierran (Twitter)

Appearing in Thursday’s Public Briefing over government-owned PTV-4, Gierran again admitted his lack of knowledge in public health management.

But Gierran insists this will not serve as a deterrent in his resolve to improve the management of PhilHealth and rid the state insurer of ineptitude and corruption.

“I admit, ano ba alam ko sa (what do I know about) public health? Of couse, aaralin ko yan (I will study it). Alangan naman sasabihin ko na alam ko na hindi ko alam (I will not say I am knowledgeable about it when I’m not). I have to talk to experts. I have to refer to experts to give me inputs. You know, we don’t have the monopoly of wisdom. Just like other people who need me, I also need them,” said Gierran.

A fraternity brother of President Duterte, Gierran rose from the ranks before becoming the NBI Director in 2016, a post he held until his retirement in February this year.

Gierran was introduced last Monday night by Duterte as the next chief of PhilHealth in a television address. He replaced former military man Ricardo Morales who resigned due to health reasons.

Gierran revealed his plan seek the advice of Morales who continues to fend off corruption charges in the ongoing probe being conducted by an inter-agency task force.

“I will talk to Sir General Morales for insights. I will talk to him like, something like, ano ba sir ang dapat gagawin, na dapat gawin (What do I need to do?). At saka, ano yung mga ginawa mo na hindi na dapat gawin (Also, what were the things you did which I should avoid doing). At least I will have the insight. I will have the clue, the hint of what to do. As simple as that,” added Gierran.

A number of senators, most notably senator Richard Gordon, believes Gierran’s experience as a former NBI director, lawyer, and a certified public accountant CPA would be useful in efforts to institute reforms.

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