President Duterte accepts Morales’ resignation, says Palace

Last updated on May 17th, 2021 at 11:32 am

MANILA – Malacañang confirmed on Thursday that President Duterte has accepted Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) president Ricardo Morales’ resignation.

According to presidential spokesperson Harry Roque, Duterte has accepted his resignation and already looking for a new head for the state insurance.

The resignation came in when the President asked Morales to step down from his post due to health reasons.

Morales took a medical leave amid the investigations on the irregularities as he is currently being treated from lymphoma.

Morales, after the resignation, assured that he will continue to cooperate and assist with the investigation on Philhealth in the alleged overpricing of information technology project, questionable disbursement of funds and others.

 Roque said that the replacement for Morales should be free from corruption and should be able to bring back the public’s trust in the state insurance agency.

As of the meantime, Philhealth’s Officer-in-Charge Arnel de Jesus who is also Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, will ensure the services and operation of the agency will remain uninterrupted. Palace also hinted on a possible restructuring of PhilHealth. Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon said that as long as it remains consistent with the law that created with Philhealth.

Related Article: https://www.theasianaffairs.com/philippines/2020/08/24/sen-lacson-philhealth-executive-committee-is-real-mafia/