Bell-Kenz Pharma files cyber libel case vs Tony Leachon

MANILA, Philippines — Bell-Kenz Pharma Inc., which is under investigation for allegedly employing a multi-level marketing scheme, filed a cyber libel case against health advocate Dr. Anthony “Tony” Leachon on Tuesday.

This developed after the local pharmaceutical company announced that it would begin suing individuals who spread malicious information about the firm.

READ: Bell-Kenz Pharma eyeing raps vs detractors

Bell-Kenz is currently under Senate inquiry after it was accused of giving doctors big incentives in exchange for prescribing its products to their patients.

During the inquiry, however, the company’s chairperson and Chief Executive Officer Luis Go denied the allegations, stressing that it is a “law-abiding pharmaceutical entity” and “adheres” to all government regulations.

READ: Bell-Kenz pharma exec tells senators: We are a law-abiding entity

The said accusations were first brought to light by Leachon in April. He, however, did not identify the specific pharmaceutical company until the Senate hearing started.

Leachon, for his part, said the complaint against him is a “clear attempt” to change the narrative and to intimidate critics, as well as a “desperate effort to silence truthful investigation and manipulate public opinion.”

“I stand by my decision to bring these matters to public attention. It is crucial that such issues are debated openly for the sake of our medical community and the trust that the Filipino people place in their healthcare providers,” Leachon said in a statement.

“Hence, despite these legal challenges, I remain committed to defending the ethical standards of healthcare in the Philippines for the benefit of future medical professionals, our patients, and our nation as a whole,” he added.

READ: Bell-Kenz Pharma admits giving incentives to doctors

Leachon said his legal team is now in the process of reviewing the details of Bell-Kenz’s complaint.

Apart from the Senate inquiry, the Department of Health is also investigating the allegations against Bell-Kenz, warning that the doctors involved may lose their licenses.