A complaint for plunder and technical malversation has been filed before the Office of the Ombudsman against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto and several current and former Cabinet officials over the alleged transfer of billions of pesos in government funds.
The complaint was led by Dr. Tony Leachon, who alleged that ₱60 billion from the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) was transferred to the National Treasury in 2025. He also cited the alleged transfer of ₱107 billion from the Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC).
Leachon argued that the funds should have been used for health services and assistance programs intended for Filipinos in need.
Aside from Recto, those named in the complaint include Acting Finance Secretary Frederick Go, former Acting Budget Secretary Rolando Toledo, PhilHealth President Edwin Mercado, former PhilHealth President Emmanuel Ledesma, Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, and PDIC President Roberto Tan. The complaint also covers other unnamed officials.
According to Leachon, the funds involved have a direct impact on patients and on the ability of hospitals to provide services, particularly as the health sector continues to face significant demands.
He emphasized that the resources should be directed toward healthcare-related programs and support for Filipinos requiring medical assistance.
The complaint was formally lodged before the Office of the Ombudsman, which handles investigations involving allegations of misconduct and criminal liability against public officials.
As of the filing of the complaint, the allegations raised by Leachon remain subject to evaluation and possible action by the Ombudsman. No ruling has yet been issued regarding the accusations against the officials named in the complaint.
