Public health advocate Dr. Anthony Leachon has accused the Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) of violating his right to due process regarding the disciplinary actions that resulted in his six-month suspension from the medical association.
Speaking in a television interview, Leachon claimed he was denied a face-to-face hearing and revealed that the suspension order was made public before he could submit an official appeal. He noted that his deadline to contest the ruling is June 15.
“It’s unfair to me kasi wala pa akong appeal,” he remarked.
The disciplinary action stems from complaints alleging that Leachon made defamatory comments against fellow medical professionals and health officials at the height of the Dengvaxia vaccine controversy.
Leachon, who previously served as PCP president, argued that the organization bypassed standard protocols for handling grievances, particularly those directed at former leaders.
“Walang due process. No face-to-face meeting. No consultation to the Council of Elders. Hindi in-involve ang buong PCP kung talagang may kasalanan ako,” Leachon said.
He further suggested that the issue should have been brought up during the organization’s general convention or forwarded to the council of past presidents for proper review.
Leachon also took issue with the public disclosure of the 26-page disciplinary decision, emphasizing that the document was explicitly marked confidential.
While he maintained his respect for the PCP as an institution, he strongly condemned the handling of his case, warning that it sets a concerning example for the rest of the organization’s roster.
“If they can do this to a past president and an advocate, how much more sa isang maliit na member lang? So, I’m saying, this may be a precedent to everyone. And I rally the medical community to this kind of injustice,” he said.
The health advocate confirmed that he intends to formally contest the suspension, voicing optimism for a favorable outcome.
“Hopefully, with God’s grace, i-reverse nila yung decision nila.”