Duterte fires FDA chief over corruption allegations

In a letter to Puno signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea dated May 15, he said the reason for her termination is “in line with the President’s continuing mandate to eradicate graft and corruption.” (File Photo: Philippine National Police/Facebook)

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has terminated the appointment of Food and Drug Authority (FDA) Director-General Nela Charade-Puno due to corruption allegations, Malacañang said on Thursday.

In a letter to Puno signed by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea dated May 15, he said the reason for her termination is “in line with the President’s continuing mandate to eradicate graft and corruption.”

“Please be advised that upon instructions of the President, your appointment as Director General of the Food and Drugs Authority, Department of Health, is hereby terminated, effective immediately,” the letter read.

“This is in line with the President’s continuing mandate to eradicate graft and corruption and to ensure that public officials and employees conduct themselves in a manner worthy of public trust,” it added.

Medialdea instructed Puno to immediately turn over all official documents and properties in her possession to the Office of the Undersecretary for Health Regulation, Department of Health.

Puno has yet to issue a statement on her termination.