MANILA, Philippines —The Department of Health denied that Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr. stayed at casinos as alleged by a complaint lodged against him.
Several "concerned citizens" claimed that Pujalte was seen gambling at the Okada Manila and Solaire Resort and Casino under the names "Louis Santos" and "Louiss Santos" to avoid being recognized.
In a statement, the DOH said that on July 20, 2026 Pujalte was invited to an official meeting with officials from Masbate and Sorsogon in an undisclosed hotel.
It also said that the meeting was focused solely on providing assistance to public hospitals in the region.
The DOH has assured the public that it remained committed to deliver quality healthcare services to every Filipino
