THE SENATE will consider a probe of Health Secretary Francisco H. Duque III for alleged conflict of interest involving a family company, Senator Christopher Lawrence T. Go said yesterday.

“I’m willing to investigate,” Mr. Go, who heads the health committee, told reporters. He added that he trusts Mr. Duque until proven guilty.

Senator Panfilo M. Lacson earlier said Doctors Pharmaceuticals Inc., a company allegedly owned by Mr. Duque’s family, had won contracts from the agency.

Mr. Go said newly appointed Philippine Coconut Authority Administrator Gonzalo T. Duque, the Health chief’s brother, had denied “conflict of interest” during a conversation.

Mr. Lacson earlier said in a privilege speech, three of the company’s five directors were related to Mr. Duque.

“Is it just a mere coincidence that Doctors Pharmaceuticals, Inc. became an accredited government contractor and supplier on the same year that Secretary Duque was confirmed by the Commission on Appointment as secretary of Health during the Arroyo administration in 2005?” he asked.

Mr. Duque did not immediately reply to a text message seeking comment. — CAT

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