Senate Deputy Majority Leader Joel Villanueva disclosed on Friday that he previously experienced a strained relationship with the former leadership of the Department of Health (DOH), pointing to persistent problems involving wasted pharmaceuticals and alleged administrative flaws.
Addressing the Senate Committee on Finance during deliberations on the DOH’s proposed ₱353.8-billion budget, the lawmaker shared that he had authored three separate resolutions demanding an official inquiry into the actions of the former health minister.
“I had a terrible relationship with the previous administration of DOH,” Villanueva said.
According to the senator, one of the primary legislative inquiries focused on the reported expiration and mismanagement of medical supplies valued at more than ₱11 billion.
He added that former health officials defended the loss by claiming a portion of the spoiled items consisted of treatments set aside specifically for COVID-19 management.
Although the senator refrained from citing names directly during the hearing, former Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa faced scrutiny concerning expired medical supplies and administrative improprieties prior to his departure.
Herbosa formally stepped down on July 13 for health reasons following a medical procedure.
Looking forward, Villanueva expressed optimism regarding the department’s future under acting Health Secretary Edwin Mercado.
“But I’m very happy and supporting the appointment of Secretary Mercado,” Villanueva said.
The DOH is currently requesting a ₱353.8-billion spending plan for 2027, reflecting a 21.2 percent reduction—equivalent to a ₱95-billion decrease—compared to its 2026 funding under the General Appropriations Act.