The Department of Justice (DOJ) has finally taken action to prevent a serious legal error or potential wrongful conviction, said the medical experts who were criminally held liable for the deaths of children immunized with Dengvaxia.
This developed as Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, also a medical expert who was implicated in the Dengvaxia case, commended the move of Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla, saying that the decision “reaffirms truth and justice in public health.”
“This decision is a victory for truth, justice, and science. It affirms that public health decisions based on sound evidence and expert guidance cannot be tainted by baseless accusations. Justice has prevailed, and I welcome this ruling with gratitude and renewed commitment,” Garin stressed.
Drs. Gerardo Bayugo and Ma. Joyce Ducusin echoed her position, in reference to the January 10, 2025 order of Remulla to withdraw a two-and-half year resolution, which caused the filing of 98 criminal cases against the so-called ‘Dengvaxia doctors.’
“The DOJ decision has stopped an unfair legal process and ensured the proper application of the law, and it came at a time when justice was at risk of being denied to us,” said the two doctors in a statement to reporters covering the House of Representatives.
In the resolution, the DOJ directed the Prosecutor General to withdraw the case for Reckless Imprudence Resulting to Homicide against Garin and the two co-respondents, citing insufficient evidence and the lack of a prima facie case.
The ruling emphasized the absence of a causal link between the Dengvaxia vaccine and the alleged deaths, supported by scientific studies from the World Health Organization and esteemed medical experts. Serious flaws in the forensic reports from the Public Attorney’s Office were also highlighted.
“It’s only in the Philippines that Dengvaxia has been ridiculously accused of ‘causing death.’ Globally, it has been recognized as a safe and effective vaccine that prevents severe dengue and saves lives,” the Iloilo lawmaker stated.
Garin also expressed concern over the PAO’s ongoing delays in case resolution, using taxpayer money without accountability.
“The case build-up should have been completed long ago, but instead, it is still being prolonged unnecessarily. The PAO continues to delay case resolution, consuming taxpayer money with no accountability.”
Moreover, the former health secretary called for transparency regarding the funds spent on the Dengvaxia cases, adding that the public health has been politicized.
“Much has been spent on the Dengvaxia cases. I call on the Public Attorney’s Office to disclose this information for transparency. These funds should be used instead to assist those who have been unjustly jailed and urgently need support.”
She also urged an end to exploiting grieving parents and stop giving false hope to those who have already lost their children.
“Stop playing on their emotions for personal or political gain. These parents have become victims of political maneuvering instead of being provided genuine support,” Garin said.