Pujalte: TB procurement review protects patients and public funds

Health Secretary Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. said the Department of Health’s review of the proposed ₱3 billion procurement of tuberculosis commodities is needed to protect patients and public funds, adding that he will cooperate fully with any investigation by the Office of the Ombudsman, Aug. 6, 2026.

Pujalte said the procurement must undergo careful examination to verify the quantity, quality and safety of medicines and ensure compliance with government rules, thus preventing irregularities involving taxpayers’ money.

An 18-page complaint filed before the Office of the Ombudsman accused Pujalte of improperly suspending the procurement of anti-tuberculosis commodities and allegedly delaying the bidding process to benefit an unnamed supplier.

Pujalte denied the allegations and maintained that conducting due diligence should not be misrepresented as an attempt to stop the government’s tuberculosis program or deprive patients of necessary medicines.

The health secretary issued the following statement:

“Wala pa tayong 30 days sa posisyon, pero gusto agad pabilisin ang pag-apruba sa ₱3 billion na TB procurement nang walang malalimang pagsusuri. Three billion pesos po ’yan ng taumbayan, hindi ’yan basta-basta. Natuto na dapat tayo sa nangyari noon sa Pharmally. Buhay ng tao ang nakataya rito.”

Pujalte said he respects the mandate and processes of the Office of the Ombudsman and is prepared to submit relevant documents and records required for any investigation.

He stressed that the review is intended to ensure that the procurement process is responsive to the needs of tuberculosis patients, transparent, and compliant with the law. He added that the department remains committed to maintaining access to safe and effective medicines while safeguarding public funds.

Before the complaint was reported, Pujalte also denied claims that he had gambled at a casino, saying he was at a restaurant in a hotel complex to meet local government mayors for a courtesy call.

“Kahit sunod-sunod ang demolition job, hindi tayo magpapa-distract. Ang pera ng bayan at buhay ng Pilipino, kailangang protektahan.”

The health secretary said he will remain focused on protecting patients, strengthening the integrity of the department’s procurement processes and ensuring the responsible use of taxpayers’ money.

ADVT.

This article is brought to you by Department of Health.