Sandiganbayan rejects Duque's attempt to block DOH witnesses

The Sandiganbayan's First Division rejected an attempt by former Health Secretary Francisco Duque III to bar two Department of Health (DOH) administrative officers from testifying in his graft case on Monday. The court decision clears the way for DOH Administrative Officers Dawnavi Lae Lacsado and Abegail Conchada to give testimony in the proceedings against Duque.

Special prosecutors highlighted in their opposition that the DOH, in its capacity as the procuring entity, possessed the legal authority to directly negotiate and purchase supplies and equipment. This authority is central to the allegations being examined in the case.

The rejection of Duque's motion represents a setback for the former health official's legal defense strategy. The testimony of the two administrative officers is expected to provide crucial details regarding the DOH's procurement procedures and decision-making processes relevant to the charges Duque is facing.

The case continues to proceed through the Sandiganbayan, the special court tasked with handling graft and corruption cases involving high-ranking government officials. The testimony of the DOH officials is anticipated to play a significant role in the court's examination of the allegations.