Palace probes casino claim vs DoH chief

Malacañang on Monday said it will investigate allegations that newly appointed acting Health Secretary Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. frequented gambling casinos.

“If there are allegations like this, they should be investigated. Whatever the outcome, we will leave it to the President to decide,” said Palace Press Officer and Presidential Communications Office Undersecretary Claire Castro.

Castro said Pujalte has not been placed under preventive suspension while the investigation is ongoing.

“As of now, the President has not conveyed any decision to issue such an order against Secretary Pujalte. Let us see in the coming hours or days,” she said.

In a letter sent by a group identifying themselves as “concerned citizens” to the Presidential Action Center, they alleged that Pujalte had been spotted gambling in several casinos in Metro Manila.

Section 14 of Presidential Decree No. 1869 prohibits government officials and employees from entering casinos. Republic Act 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees, requires that public officials lead modest lives and avoid extravagance.

Unpaid health workers

Meanwhile, Castro said the Commission on Audit (CoA) is resolving issues related to the release of unpaid benefits for health workers.

This after the Alliance of Health Workers had questioned the delayed release of benefits and performance-based bonuses dating back to 2021.

“The matter is now being addressed. There are some issues being resolved with the CoA and the Department of Health has already written the Department of Budget and Management seeking clarification on matters involving the medical allowance, including the verification of disbursement modes, such as direct HMO provider engagement or cash reimbursement, as well as eligibility coverage and documentary requirements,” Castro said.

“To our fellow Filipinos who are entitled to these benefits, rest assured the government is working to resolve these issues and clarify them with the DBM,” she added.