Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Jose “Brix” S. Pujalte Jr. on Tuesday denied allegations linking him to frequent casino visits, saying a recent appearance at a venue with a casino was related to official government business.
In an interview on DZRH’s Magandang Umaga Pilipinas, Pujalte said he was invited on July 20—less than a week after assuming office—by two unnamed provincial officials to meet at a restaurant located within a complex that includes a casino.
The health chief said the meeting was held in the dining area and that they did not enter the gaming floor.
“Kumain kami sa lugar na may casino at noong aking chineck, basta on official business ay hindi bawal ito basta't wala sa loob ng casino,” Pujalte said.
According to Pujalte, the officials raised concerns about overcrowding in hospitals in their province, with occupancy rates reaching up to 300 percent.
He acknowledged, however, that he erred in agreeing to meet outside his office, citing a misunderstanding of protocol.
“Ang pagkakamali ko, hindi ko naintindihan ang ibig sabihin ng courtesy call. Ito pala ay kung sino ang may kailangan, sila ang dapat pumunta sa aking opisina,” he said.
Pujalte also dismissed the complaint against him, noting that it was unsigned and lacked identification.
He urged the media to verify the basis of complaints before reporting them and warned against sensationalizing unsubstantiated claims.
The DOH secretary described the allegations as an “ad hominem” attack, saying critics were targeting his character rather than his performance, as he has yet to produce results less than a month into his tenure.
Pujalte emphasized his 35 years of public service, noting he has no administrative or criminal cases on record with agencies such as the National Bureau of Investigation, the Office of the Ombudsman, the Professional Regulation Commission and the Civil Service Commission.
“Inaalagaan ko po yung pangalan ko at integridad sapagkat ako po ay second generation na orthopedic surgeon,” he said, adding that he would not jeopardize his career or family legacy in public service.
