DOH Chief Denies Gambling Allegations

The Department of Health (DOH) on Saturday denied allegations against Health Secretary Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. that he was involved in gambling activities, following a formal complaint filed against him. “Mariing itinatanggi ni Department of Health Secretary Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. ang paratang sa kumakalat na liham ukol sa diumano’y pamamalagi ng Kalihim sa mga casino para magsugal,” the DOH said in a statement. (Department of Health Secretary Jose ‘Brix’ Pujalte Jr. strongly denies the allegations in a circulating letter claiming his supposed presence in casinos to gamble.) Pujalte clarified that his presence at a hotel on July 20 was strictly for "official business." “Naimbitahan siya para dumalo sa isang opisyal na pagpupulong kasama ang mga opisyal ng Masbate at Sorsogon sa isang hotel. Tanging ang pagbibigay ng tulong sa mga pampublikong ospital sa rehiyon ang pinag-usapan sa naturang pagtitipon,” the statement read. (He was invited to attend an official meeting with local officials from Masbate and Sorsogon at the hotel. The discussion focused solely on providing assistance to public hospitals in the region.) Pujalte was alleged to have violated Section 14(a) of Presidential Decree No. 1869, which prohibits government officials from playing in casinos, as well as Republic Act No. 6713, or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. The DOH maintained that it remains fully focused on delivering quality healthcare services to the public. President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. appointed Pujalte as Health Secretary on July 13, following the resignation of Dr. Teodoro Herbosa —VAL, GMA News