Several leaders from the House of Representatives have come forward to defend Executive Secretary Ralph Recto against calls for his resignation made by self-proclaimed public health expert, Dr. Tony Leachon.
Deputy Majority Leader Zia Alonto Adiong criticized Leachon, advising him to focus on his patients rather than meddling in political affairs.
"Leachon sounds like a broken record. He should stick to medical issues instead of commenting on economics," stated Manila Rep. Joel Chua.
Chua emphasized that Leachon is not an economist and should concentrate on his medical profession.
Deputy Speaker Janette Garin echoed these sentiments, labeling Leachon's claims as repetitive and unfounded.
Leachon claims to be a public health expert, but he has not studied public health at any advanced level. He only labels himself as such," said Garin.
Garin, a former health secretary, also challenged Leachon to clarify the dismissal of complaints against her related to the Dengvaxia vaccine, suggesting his testimony was weak.
"He should inform the public that the cases were dismissed due to his unreliable testimony," she added.
Garin revealed that Leachon had expected to be appointed as health secretary following the resignation of Enrique Ona, which she believes contributes to his animosity.