Ombudsman can suspend Duque pending inquiry on purchase of PPEs, test kits, says Tolentino

By JOHN CARLO M. CAHINHINAN

Administration Sen. Francis Tolentino said the Office of the Ombudsman can suspend embattled Health Sec. Francis Duque III pending an investigation over the Department of Health’s (DOH) alleged anomalous procurement of personal protective equipment (PPEs) and COVID-19 test kits.

In an interview with radio DZRH, Tolentino said Ombudsman Samuel Martires can place Duque under preventive suspension to pave way for an impartial probe over the supposed lapses in the government’s response in the global coronavirus pandemic—including alleged irregularities in acquiring COVID-19 test kits as well as the supposed delays in the procurement of PPEs and other medical gear for medical health workers.

“May kapangyarihan ang ombudsman na ganyan. Habang nag-iimbestiga, suspendihin muna. Para yung ebidensya hindi mapakialaman habang ginagawa itong masusing imbestigasyon ng Ombudmsan,” he said.

Tolentino made the remarks following the pronouncement made of Health Usec. Maria Rosario Vergerie that Duque won’t take a leave of absence despite the Ombudsman’s inquiry.

“Alam mo personal niyang (Duque) desisyon yan e. Walang makakapilit sa kanya. Personal na desisyon yan unless yung ombudsman mismo ang magsabi na suspendido sya habang iniimbestigahan,” said Duque.

Tolentino stressed that no one can force Duque from taking a leave of absence but it’s also the prerogative of the Ombudsman to proceed with the investigation if he sees there are enough evidence against the health chief.

He added that he sees no problem with the ongoing investigation of the Ombudsman so that not only those responsible for the government’s slow action in the COVID-19 response should be held liable for the procurement of alleged overpriced rapid and PCR test kits and PPEs.

“Tama po yan kasi constitutional duty naman talaga yan ng Ombudsman. At para maalis na rin siguro yung agam-agam ng iba na mayrong mali na ginawa ang DOH. At para maliwanagan na ang lahat… kung may pagkakamali, baka pwede pa maayos. At kung mayron talagang malaking pagkakamali, ay dapat may managot,” he said.

Tolentino was one of at least 15 senators from the majority bloc last April who have signed Senate Resolution No. 362, urging Duque to step down as DOH chief, citing “lack of foresight and inefficiency.”

Source: Latest Politics News Today (Politics.com.ph)