Some insiders from the Health Department have come to the defense of Dr. Ted Herbosa’s leadership following President Ferdinand R. Marcos’ recent call for a recalibration and realignment of his cabinet. This directive, which led to the submission of courtesy resignations from cabinet members, has put several leaders’ positions, including Herbosa’s, under scrutiny.
Supporters of Dr. Herbosa argue that the allegations threatening his position are both unfounded and unfair.
Over his tenure leading the Department of Health (DOH), Secretary Herbosa has faced multiple criticisms and allegations, which have sparked public and sectoral opposition to his continued leadership.
One major point of contention is the number of his overseas trips, which critics claim are excessive. However, Herbosa’s supporters emphasize that all these trips were official and yielded significant benefits for the Philippines. Notably, he secured a US$25 million, almost 1.4 billion pesos, grant from the Pandemic Fund. He is also credited with facilitating the delivery of tuberculosis drugs for multidrug-resistant TB from the Stop TB Global Partnership, valued at over US$150,000, 8.3 million in pesos. Additionally, Herbosa played a key role in obtaining a US$400 million, 22 billion pesos soft loan from the World Bank. These achievements complement other acquisitions, including digital technology and hospitals from the UAE, as well as funding from the Green Climate Fund.
The DOH supporters stress that these trips were not expenses but strategic investments that helped raise crucial funds for the country’s health sector.
During his recent participation in the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) in Geneva, Switzerland, Herbosa faced criticism for bringing a large Philippine delegation, including some supposedly non-essential personnel, which increased travel costs.
While speculation continues ahead of the next round of cabinet announcements, the question remains: Will Herbosa stay or go? The nation watches closely.
Herbosa’s camp dismisses the criticism, pointing out that other countries sent even larger delegations—China with 170 delegates and Vietnam with 80. They explained, “The World Health Assembly is like the Olympics, with numerous meetings—side meetings and bilateral discussions. To secure investments, recognition, and influence, you need to be present at every event.” They added that critics lack understanding of the Assembly’s dynamics.
Furthermore, they believe Herbosa’s involvement was highly beneficial for the country’s medical sector, especially after his election as the President of the 78th World Health Assembly this year. He is the first Health chief to be elected to the WHA, the decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO).
Even President Marcos welcomed this historic election as a recognition of the Philippines’ advocacy on global health issues.
“How can someone holding a global leadership position be replaced abruptly? He should be allowed to fulfill his duties on the international stage, or the country risks losing face,” they said in unison.
This statement underscores the strong support within the Health Department for Dr. Herbosa as the cabinet realignment unfolds.
