MANILA, Philippines — Ombudsman Samuel Martires on Thursday said that is in talks with his subordinates if a motu proprio investigation would be launched on Senator Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III’s supposed breach of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) protocols.
Pimentel, who tested positive for the disease, said that he got the information about his health issue while accompanying his wife to the Makati Medical Center, where she was scheduled to give birth.
“I’m discussing with my subordinates if a motu proprio investigation will be conducted on Senator Koko Pimentel’s supposed breach of COVID-19 protocols at the Makati Medical Center,” Martires said in a message to reporters.
After Pimentel’s admission, he faced severe backlash over wild rumors that he lingered within hospital premises.
The MMC also issued a statement, where they slammed Pimentel for his “reckless” and “irresponsible” actions.
Pimentel later apologized for his actions.
As of Thursday, the total number of COVID-19 cases in the country has reached 707, including 45 deaths and 28 recoveries, data from the Department of Health showed.