In his recent interview with SunStar Cebu, former presidential spokesperson and senatorial candidate Harry Roque voiced out his concern over the recommendation of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee to file charges against President Rodrigo Duterte, along with Pharmally Pharmaceutical Corporation and several other individuals linked to the issue of anomalous use of public funds to procure personal protective equipment and other materials.

Roque claims that the committee’s report is merely a “scrap of paper” because the Senate has yet to vote on it, adding that the Senate investigation on Pharmally is just a way to attack the President and even his senatorial bid. He maintains that Duterte is innocent, as there is no evidence that can directly implicate the president.

CLAIM:

Roque asserts the innocence of the current administration, suggesting the anomalies surrounding Pharmally have nothing to do with Duterte. He claims that there were no overpricing and ghost deliveries that occurred in the transactions between Pharmally and the government.

RATING:

False

FACTS:

The 113-page partial Senate Blue Ribbon Committee report released last February 1 stated that Duterte “betrayed the public trust” when his administration transacted with Pharmally. “Unfortunately, based on the President’s own behavior, one cannot help but conclude that he was aware of, allowed, and condoned,” the report stressed.

The report listed down numerous violations, among which was appointing former economic adviser Michael Yang who was proven to have ties with Pharmally. The report further stated that after Duterte’s term, he must face charges for his involvement in the anomalous deal.

During the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearing on October 19, 2021, Senator Risa Hontiveros presented her findings showing that Pharmally sold items to DOTr were overpriced by at least 62%.

Also according to the data from Senate Minority Leader Franklin Drilon, Pharmally sold face masks priced at P27.72 when other suppliers were offering the same item at a lower price of either P13.5, P16, or P17.50. Pharmally also sold test kits for P1,720 and personal protective equipment (PPEs) for P1,910 when the market cost for said items stand at P925 and P945, respectively.

Aside from overpricing, the Senate inquiry was able to reveal that Pharmally made “ghost deliveries” of face masks, face shields, and PPEs amounting to P3 billion.

WHY IT MATTERS:

Billions of Filipino taxpayers’ money was used for the anomalous transactions between Pharmally and the government, and Roque’s statement attempts to remove the accountability from both parties. His interview also currently has 4,900 views, 115 comments, and 21 comments. – Minerva San Miguel and Gail Sobrevega

Altermidya Network is part of #FactsFirstPH which brings together various sectors that are committed to promoting truth in the public space, and exacting accountability on those who harm it with lies. For those interested to join the initiative, email info@factsfirst.ph.

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