Health advocates file complaint vs new DOH chief over tuberculosis drug freeze
MANILA, Philippines — Health advocates urged the Office of the Ombudsman to investigate Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. over an alleged freeze on P3.225 billion in tuberculosis medicine purchases, warning that delays could leave the country short of critical drugs.
The Concerned Health Advocates for the Prevention and Control of Tuberculosis filed the complaint Wednesday, August 6 seeking Pujalte's preventive suspension while the allegations are investigated.
The group alleged that Pujalte issued a directive on July 24 halting all 2026 tuberculosis commodity procurements, including the purchase of adult anti-TB medicines.
Pujalte denied deliberately delaying the procurement, describing the process as an ongoing review. He said he was prepared to submit relevant documents to authorities investigating the complaint.
Shortages, violations
The health advocates said the procurement and delivery of anti-TB medicines normally take six to nine months, raising the risk of supply gaps if the bidding process is delayed.
Whistleblower accounts alleged that the procurement was intentionally stalled to push back the bidding timeline and favor a private supplier, according to the complaint.
The group asked the Ombudsman to investigate Pujalte for alleged grave misconduct, grave abuse of authority and conduct prejudicial to the best interest of the service.
It also accused him of violating Sections 3(e) and 3(f) of Republic Act 3019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, for alleged partiality, injury to the public and refusal to perform official duties.
The complainants argued that Pujalte had no authority to unilaterally place the Congress-approved procurement funds on hold.
They cited Article VI, Section 29(1) of the Constitution and Section 74 of the fiscal year 2026 National Expenditure Program due to the official's alleged lack of required authorization in halting the procurement.
- Latest
- Trending