Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, August 28) — President Rodrigo Duterte will decide on who will be the next to lead the embattled Philippine Health Insurance Corporation by Monday, his former aide and now senator, Bong Go said.
Go told reporters on Friday that the President already has someone in mind to replace ex-PhilHealth President Ricardo Morales who recently stepped down from his post upon Duterte’s advice, due to health issues.
“He will decide by Monday kung kanya na pong pipiliin itong taong ito,” said Go, adding that he spoke to Duterte early morning.
[Translation: He will decide by Monday if he will really appoint this person.]
Currently, EVP and COO Arnel De Jesus sits at the head of the agency as officer-in-charge but lawmakers are uneasy since the official has his own medical concerns. De Jesus had earlier asked to skip congressional probes citing that he had undergone “emergency medical procedures.” He also stepped out during a hearing because of an emergency.
PhilHealth has been hounded by corruption issues of overpayments to hospitals and procurement of new equipment, among other allegations. Senators said they have gathered enough evidence to recommend the filing of complaints against the government corporation’s officials.
READ: ‘Relieved’ ex-PhilHealth chief Morales assures resignation won’t exempt him from any probe
