Health Secretary Ted Herbosa has resigned, citing health reasons and the need to undergo months of rehabilitation following a recent major surgical procedure, Malacañang confirmed Monday.
Veteran orthopedic surgeon Dr. Jose Brittanio “Brix” Pujalte Jr. has been designated as Herbosa’s successor, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro announced. Pujalte has served as medical center chief of the Philippine Orthopedic Center since 2014.
According to his resignation letter, Herbosa decided to step down after realizing he would be unable to fully carry out the responsibilities of leading the Department of Health during his recovery.
“Today, I tendered my courtesy resignation as SOH to PBBM. My operation has made me realize that I also need to take care of myself. I will be on extensive rehabilitation for 3-4 months and I find it unfair that I will not be able to devote my full time and effort to important matters of DOH,” Herbosa wrote.
Addressing Department of Health employees, Herbosa added:
“If I have failed anyone during my stint, I apologize. Tao lang po. All the best. Please continue working hard for the health of the Filipino people.”
During a Palace briefing, Castro said President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. accepted Herbosa’s courtesy resignation and rejected speculation that it was linked to recent administrative controversies or pending complaints.
“Nag-resign po siya dahil po sa kanyang kalusugan. Hindi po nabanggit ang patungkol po d’yan, at ang isinaalang-alang po ng Pangulo ay ang kanyang kalusugan,” Castro said when asked about graft complaints previously filed against the outgoing health secretary.
The Department of Health said preparations are underway for the leadership transition, with the turnover ceremony expected to be scheduled later this week.
