CLARIFICATION ON OMBUDSMAN COMPLAINTS: DR. TONY LEACHON’S CASE REGARDING PHILHEALTH AND PDIC FUNDS STANDS INDEPENDENT FROM EARLIER FILINGS

MANILA, Philippines – June 9, 2026 – In response to recent media reports and social media commentary that risk conflating distinct legal actions, a formal clarification is being issued regarding the complaints filed before the Office of the Ombudsman concerning the transfer of Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth) funds to the National Treasury.

It is imperative to emphasize that the complaint filed by Dr. Tony Leachon on May 25, 2026, is entirely separate and independent from the earlier complaint lodged by former National Treasurer Leonor Magtolis Briones, former Presidential Adviser Ronald Llamas, former Finance Undersecretary Cielo Magno, and other co-complainants.

Dr. Leachon’s filing stands on its own merits, anchored in its unique allegations, evidence, and legal theories. It seeks strict accountability for what has been described as plunder, technical malversation, graft, and related offenses arising from the alleged diversion of ₱60 billion in PhilHealth funds and ₱107 billion in Philippine Deposit Insurance Corporation (PDIC) reserves. This case is not tethered to, nor will it be resolved by, any action taken in the Briones-Llamas-Magno complaint.

Unfortunately, recent narratives have blurred these critical distinctions, creating a false impression that developments in one case automatically determine the fate of the other. Such conflation is inaccurate, misleading, and dangerous. It undermines public understanding of the legal process and risks eroding confidence in the institutions tasked with safeguarding public funds.

Every complaint must be judged independently—based strictly on the facts alleged, the evidence presented, and the law applied. The outcome of one case does not predetermine the outcome of another. To suggest otherwise is to diminish the integrity of due process.

We therefore call on the public and the media to exercise care and precision in reporting these matters. The distinction must remain clear:

1. The complaint filed by Briones, Llamas, Magno, and their co-complainants; and
2. The separate, independent complaint filed by Dr. Tony Leachon on May 25, 2026.

The Filipino people deserve truthful and accurate information, especially when billions in healthcare funds—meant to serve the sick and the poor—are at stake. Accountability cannot be reduced to headlines or political spin. It must be pursued with rigor, independence, and moral clarity.

As Dr. Leachon has underscored: “This is not merely a legal matter but a moral one. The ₱60 billion could have saved lives, kept hospitals afloat, and brought dignity to families in despair.”

We remain confident that the Office of the Ombudsman will evaluate all complaints fairly and independently, and that justice will prevail—not through confusion or dismissal, but through the careful weighing of evidence and the courage to hold the powerful accountable.