President Rodrigo R. Duterte has accepted the resignation of PhilHealth President and CEO Ricardo Morales and wished him good health and fast recovery from cancer.
But Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque assured that the investigation on Morales will still continue and he will still be held liable if found guilty on the alleged anomalies in the agency.
“The President has always the opinion that health should come first. Kaya nga po, (That’s why,) he’s hoping that the resignation of General Morales will lead to recovery from his current ailment. If there is criminal liability incurred, public officers can be liable for them whether or not they continue to be in office.”
Secretary Roque also reacted to the reported statement of Morales that he might fill in the position as the agency’s President and CEO, “General Morales, I am praying for your good health. May you recover, and may you live long. As Presidential Spokesperson po, I am busy with my job right now.”
Meanwhile, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Francisco Duque III stated the Chief Executive is expected to name Morales’ replacement this week.
“Si Pangulo (The President) right now is already looking for a replacement. So ang pinupuntirya natin sana within the week sana po ay magkaroon na ng bagong pangulo at punong tagapagpatupad ang PhilHealth. (So we expect that within this week, there will be a new PhilHealth president and Chief Executive).”
Department of Justice (DOJ) Secretary Menardo Guevarra suggested that it is best that the next leader of PhilHealth will be an inspiration to gain back the trust and respect for the agency.
“Someone who has a steep experience in financial management and deep understanding of the law, and has a good amount of charisma to inspire and rally the good people at Philhealth to start rebuilding the public’s trust in and respect for their agency.”
Meanwhile, PhilHealth Executive Vice President and COO Arnel De Jesus has been designated as Officer-in-Charge until the President names the next PhilHealth president.
Report from Mela Lesmoras
