DOH chief Duque gets CA nod

MANILA, Philippines — After two hearings before the Commission on Appointments, Health Secretary Francisco Duque finally secured CA confirmation for his second stint at the helm of the Department of Health (DOH).

In his confirmation hearing before the CA’s committee on health yesterday, Duque was subjected to various questions from lawmakers regarding the programs of the DOH, the financial status of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp., and how the department is dealing with the controversy arising from the administration of the Dengvaxia vaccine to school children.

Duque previously served as health secretary during the Arroyo administration during which he also became chairman of the Civil Service Commission.

There was, however, one party against Duque’s confirmation.

The CA heard Dr. David Harold Gosiengfiao who called on the DOH to address the issues related to what he described as the “cataract scam” of 2016.

The scam was the subject of an inquiry by the Senate Blue Ribbon committee in the previous Congress, during which Gosiengfiao’s Pacific Eye Institute was among those implicated.

Duque said he was aware of the cases filed by Gosiengfiao and he has nothing to say about the matter except that he would abide by whatever decision is handed down by the investigating body.

During the hearing, Duque got emotional after he was asked by Sen. Risa Hontiveros about how the DOH will rebuild the public trust and boost the morale of officials following the dengue vaccine controversy.

“This is a challenge for all of us. It’s difficult, it’s a struggle, but we must realize that these difficulties also teach us lessons. Lessons that are so important so that next time this thing doesn’t happen again,” Duque said.

He recalled how he constantly addresses the DOH family during their weekly flag-raising ceremony.

By the time Duque’s confirmation was taken up in plenary later in the day, it was clear that he got the backing of the members of the CA.

President Duterte reappointed Duque last October to replace Paulyn Jean Ubial whose ad interim appointment was rejected by the CA.  

Malacañang welcomed the confirmation of Duque and said his appointment will further boost the government’s health care program.

Presidential spokesman Harry Roque said Duque’s confirmation as Secretary of Health will address the problem caused by the Dengvaxia issue.

“We are confident that Secretary Duque would be able to deliver better the health programs and services as the DOH once again aims to regain the trust of our people through integrity, professionalism and good governance,” Roque said. – Christina Mendez