Mike Defensor warns of legal raps vs DOH officials over remdesivir use

By Billy Begas

Anakalusugan Rep. Michael Defensor on Sunday said that officials of the Department of Health (DOH) may face criminal charges if they insist on procuring additional remdesivir despite the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation against its use in COVID-19 patients.

“We consider all new purchases of remdesivir as reckless and foolish spending in light of the WHO recommendation, and considering that government is scrounging for money to buy more COVID-19 vaccines and to pay for the P2,000 cash aid for every Filipino contemplated under the Bayanihan 3 bill,” Defensor said.

Defensor explained that additional purchase of remdesivir after WHO’s adverse recommendation “may be deemed as transactions highly detrimental to the government under the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act.”

He said the law states that DOH officials may be held liable “if they perform a transaction that is grossly disadvantageous’ to the government.”

“The potential liability is there, regardless whether the officials involved profited or not from the procurement,” he added.

Graft is punishable with up to 10 years jail term and perpetual disqualification from holding public office.

“We would urge the Department of Budget and Management to repurpose the money meant for remdesivir, preferably to acquire more COVID-19 vaccines,” Defensor said.

The WHO said that remdesivir “had no important effect” in treating COVID-19 patients.

“The problem with remdesivir is its outrageous price, and yet, based on the findings of the WHO, the drug offers no significant relief to patients,” Defensor pointed out.

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