DOH to remove all Bong Go posters, campaign paraphernalia from Malasakit Centers

The Department of Health will remove all campaign paraphernalia in government hospitals in compliance with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) order, the poll body said Wednesday.

Comelec spokesperson James Jimenez said such compliance is indicated in a memo dated March 25, 2019 issued by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III involving Malasakit Center posters featuring administration Senate bet Christopher "Bong" Go, former top aide of President Rodrigo Duterte.

The Malasakit Centers provide assistance to those who seek financial aid for the sick thru government programs.

The memo, per Jimenez, reiterated the “policy against visual displays and campaign paraphernalia in all DOH Centers for Health Development, Medical Centers and other Public Buildings.”

"With this, Secretary Duque has assured the Comelec that all officials and employees will comply with all relevant Comelec Rules and Regulations in relation to the May 13, 2019 National and Local Elections," Jimenez said in a statement.

Earlier, the Comelec asked the DOH to remove all Malasakit Center posters bearing the name of Go.

"We sent notices to all candidates that have illegal posters, all LAHAT. We requested @DOHgovph (DOH) to remove posters in Malasakit centers gov't hospitals," Comelec Commissioner Rowena Guanzon said in a tweet on Monday as a response to a netizen who complained about Go's giant posters.

Go echoed Comelec's call for the state-run medical facilities to remove his posters.

"Tanggalin niyo na po mukha at pangalan ko sa posters at tarps. Huwag niyo na po ikabit iyan. Itulong niyo na lang sa mga nangangailangan," Go said.

"Paalala rin sa mga government employees, stay neutral. Uphold political neutrality in the conduct of your official duties. 'Yan ang utos ng Pangulo," Go added. —KG, GMA News