Palace Awaits Evidence on Health Secretary Allegations

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. will act on allegations against Health Secretary Jose Brittanio “Brix” S. Pujalte, Jr. only after formal investigations establish sufficient evidence, Malacañang said on Monday. Palace Press Officer Clarissa A. Castro said the President has not ordered any preventive suspension and would base any decision on verified facts. She added that investigations should proceed before any action is taken. Mr. Pujalte has denied allegations of casino gambling after a complaint was filed against him before the Presidential Complaint Center last month by a group of unnamed citizens. Meanwhile, the Palace condemned an alleged plot to implicate Executive Secretary Ralph G. Recto in fabricated sex and drug allegations, describing it as a malicious attempt at character assassination. Ms. Castro said the National Bureau of Investigation is continuing its probe into the alleged scheme. — Erika Mae P. Sinaking