Manila: Deputy Speaker Paolo Ortega V of La Union on Monday urged Cabinet officials facing repeated complaints and accusations to stay focused on governance, saying political attacks should not disrupt public service or weaken government institutions. Ortega issued the statement amid what he described as a growing pattern of harassment suits and politically charged allegations being filed against members of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s Cabinet.

According to Philippines News Agency, Ortega specifically cited the case filed against Executive Secretary Ralph Recto, who was accused of personally enriching himself from the transfer of about PHP60 billion in PhilHealth funds to the Department of Budget and Management, which were later returned by the government. Ortega emphasized that criticisms, intrigues, and complaints are common in public service, especially in high positions, but their real aim is often to disrupt government work and destroy the credibility of officials.

Ortega advised officials not to be distracted by these allegations and to continue their work and service to the public. He stressed that allegations alone should never be treated as proof of wrongdoing. In a democracy, accountability is important, but so is fairness. Allegations must always be tested against facts, evidence, and due process.

The House leader also highlighted the importance of distinguishing institutional decisions from accusations of personal wrongdoing. In the case involving the Executive Secretary, he noted that it is crucial to differentiate between policy decisions made by institutions and allegations of personal enrichment directed at individuals. If the funds in question were legally transferred, accounted for, and eventually returned, then the proper authorities and documentary records should clarify those matters objectively.

Ortega encouraged Cabinet officials to continue cooperating with lawful proceedings while remaining focused on their mandate. He asserted that the most important thing is that government service does not stop due to complaints that disrupt or grandstand. In the end, he stated, the truth will prevail, not propaganda or detraction.