Report Philippine Health Secretary Faces Major Corruption Allegations

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Photo courtesy of PhilStar

 

In a brewing political storm, Philippine Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa is under fire for allegedly mishandling P1.29 billion (approximately 825 million Thai Baht) in unliquidated funds transferred to UNICEF for vaccine procurement. The charges, brought forth by unnamed staff within the Department of Health (DOH), were filed with the Office of the Ombudsman, pointing to a series of alleged financial misdoings in 2024.

 

The complaint highlights that a substantial cash advance was given to UNICEF from February to July 2024. Despite these funds remaining unliquidated, Herbosa reportedly initiated a further procurement request for P524 million (approximately 335 million Thai Baht) in vaccines.

 

Complainants argue that Herbosa disregarded liquidation deadlines, classifying funds incorrectly as advances to contractors, when in reality, UNICEF, as a third-party international organisation, should have been noted as "due from NGO/CSOs". Their claims suggest deliberate acts to mislead financial oversight by regulators.

 

Albert Domingo, DOH spokesman, stated that the department awaits official notification of the complaint before commenting, indicating respect for due process and the Ombudsman’s authority.

 

Herbosa faces multiple charges, including graft and corruption, falsification of public documents, and breaching the code of conduct for public officials. This adds considerable complexity to his tenure as Health Secretary amid a backdrop of ongoing public health challenges.

 

In addition to the financial accusations, Herbosa is accused of stalling procurement processes, significantly delaying the delivery of vaccines and drugs. Reports suggest that some procurement protests were left unresolved for up to 245 days, far exceeding the legal timeframe of seven days. This has raised suspicions of bias towards favoured bidders while sidelining others.

 

A memo from the Commission on Audit identified unresolved protests concerning P1.2 billion (approximately 767 million Thai Baht) worth of vaccines, underscoring these administrative lapses.

 

The complainants voiced concerns that Herbosa's actions have eroded fair competition in procurement and negatively impacted public welfare. Accusations of manifest partiality suggest a troubling pattern of favouritism, which they argue is detrimental to public interest and ethical governance.

 

The allegations against Herbosa are serious, and the outcome of these charges will likely have significant repercussions for the DOH and its operations. With the Ombudsman now involved, a thorough investigation will follow to determine the veracity of these claims and decide on appropriate actions.

 

This unfolding situation has put a spotlight on governmental procurement practices and highlights the importance of transparency and accountability in public office. As the case develops, it is critical for authorities to address these allegations with urgency to restore public confidence and ensure that healthcare delivery remains unaffected.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from PhilStar 2025-08-13

 

[Watawattana]

No different to the UK's handling of COVID.  Lots of sticky fingers and snouts in the trough.  Allegedly of course...