MANILA -- The Department of Health (DOH) on Wednesday welcomed the investigation to be conducted by the Office of the Ombudsman on the alleged irregularities and anomalies in handling the country's coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) situation.
In a statement, the DOH said it has been transparent in the Covid-19 response, including procurement transactions and the provision of benefits to healthcare workers.
"The Department has issued all checks to the kin of 32 fallen healthcare workers and 19 severe Covid-19 patients who recovered last June 9. New claims to said benefits are being processed to this day," it added.
On May 26, President Rodrigo Duterte ordered the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to investigate the issues raised on the procurement of personal protective equipment, machines, and testing kits by the Procurement Service- Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The DOH emphasized that it has maintained a regular reporting of cases and deaths through its pressers, situation reports, and in its tracker, publicly available in the official channels.
"As firm believers of transparency, the Department has likewise religiously informed the public for corrections and clarifications raised by all sectors as it continues to validate all submitted data. DOH officials will willingly cooperate with the authorities to ensure utmost transparency throughout the duration of the investigation and beyond," it added. (PNA)
