Ex-DOH Official Denies Role in P3.5-B Dengvaxia Vaccine Promotion
In a high-profile testimony before the Sandiganbayan, former Health Undersecretary Kenneth Hartigan-Go has firmly denied allegations that he promoted the use of the Dengvaxia vaccine, despite his past connection to a foundation linked to its distributor. Hartigan-Go, who served as executive director of the Zuellig Family Foundation from 2001 to 2009, emphasized that the foundation never engaged in advertising or selling any products during his tenure.
Key Testimony and Admissions
During the court proceedings, Hartigan-Go acknowledged signing a recommendation in 2015 from the Formular Executive Council. This document proposed an exemption for Dengvaxia from the Philippine National Drug Formulary, which would have allowed the government to legally purchase the vaccine. However, he clarified that this exemption was never approved, and he denied any awareness of a reference to a Sanofi study within the recommendation, as alleged by prosecutors.
Background of the Case
The case centers on alleged irregularities in the P3.5 billion purchase of Dengvaxia in 2015. Other individuals charged include former Health Secretary and current House Deputy Speaker Janette Garin, among others. According to the Office of the Ombudsman, government funds were allegedly used illegally for the vaccine purchase, as it was not part of the Expanded Program for Immunization and lacked approval from the drug formulary, potentially violating existing laws and regulations, including Executive Order No. 49.
Hartigan-Go's testimony highlights ongoing scrutiny into the controversial vaccine deal, with implications for public health policy and accountability in government procurement processes.
