DOH chief denies gambling in casino, cites hotel meeting

MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. on Tuesday denied allegations of gambling in casinos, stating he was merely invited to a meeting with Masbate and Sorsogon government officials in a hotel on July 20. Pujalte did not identify the hotel where the meeting took place. He clarified that the discussion revolved around plans to provide assistance to public hospitals in the region. His statement came after concerned citizens filed a report against him before the Presidential Complaint Center at Malacañang. The complainants alleged that Pujalte was seen gambling at Okada Manila and Solaire Resort & Casino under the aliases “Louis Santos” and “Louiss Santos” to avoid recognition. The group asserted that Pujalte’s alleged actions directly violated Presidential Decree 1869, which prohibits government officials and employees from playing or staying inside casinos. They urged President Marcos to order the Anti-Red Tape Authority, Presidential Anti-Corruption Commission, or Office of the Ombudsman to conduct an investigation and place Pujalte under preventive suspension. This incident highlights the ongoing scrutiny of public officials' conduct in the Philippines and the role of citizen vigilance in upholding governance standards. The prohibition under Presidential Decree 1869 underscores the government's stance on maintaining the integrity of public service.