Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. is facing a graft complaint before the Office of the Ombudsman over the alleged suspension of the Department of Health’s procurement of anti-tuberculosis commodities.
The anonymous complainants accused Pujalte of violating the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act by allegedly delaying the bidding process to favor a supplier and sought his preventive suspension and the filing of criminal charges.
They claimed the procurement freeze could disrupt tuberculosis treatment and endanger public health by increasing the risk of drug resistance and disease transmission.
The complaint also accused Pujalte of grave misconduct and abuse of authority, arguing that he had no legal basis to halt the procurement.
Pujalte has not publicly addressed the latest allegations, although he previously denied separate accusations that he gambled at two resort casinos.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 6, 2026
