MANILA — Deputy Speaker Francisco Paolo Ortega V on Monday called on Cabinet officials to remain focused on delivering public service despite what he described as politically motivated complaints and attacks aimed at destabilizing the administration.
Ortega issued the statement amid a series of allegations being lodged against members of the Cabinet of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., including a complaint involving Executive Secretary Ralph Recto over the transfer of nearly PHP60 billion in PhilHealth funds to the Department of Budget and Management.
The funds were eventually returned by the government, according to reports.
The La Union lawmaker said criticism and controversies are inevitable for officials occupying high government positions, but stressed that such issues should not hinder the delivery of services to the public.
“Public officials should not lose focus because of complaints intended to disrupt government work or damage reputations,” Ortega said in a statement.
He emphasized that the filing of complaints does not automatically prove wrongdoing, noting that accusations must still undergo proper legal scrutiny and be supported by evidence and due process.
Ortega also underscored the importance of distinguishing policy decisions made by institutions from allegations of personal gain directed at individuals.
He said if the questioned funds were legally transferred, properly documented, and later returned, the matter should be clarified objectively through official records and lawful proceedings.
The House official urged Cabinet members to cooperate with investigations while continuing to fulfill their responsibilities to the public.
He added that government operations should not be derailed by politically charged accusations or publicity-driven complaints, stressing that truth and due process must prevail in the end.
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