Solon on DOH chief Herbosa: 'May he be like Juan Flavier'


At a glance

  • BHW Party-list Rep. Angelica Natasha Co says she wants newly-minted Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Ted Herbosa to emulate the late great Juan Flavier.


Screenshot_20230606-085345_Chrome.jpg Juan Flavier (Senate website)


BHW Party-list Rep. Angelica Natasha Co has hailed the appointment of Dr. Ted Herbosa as the new full-time secretary of the Department of Health (DOH).

At the same time, Co bared her wish for Herbosa to emulate one of the most beloved and respected health secretaries there ever was.

"May Secretary Herbosa follow in the footsteps of Dr. Juan Flavier, who, in my mind, was one of the best secretaries DOH ever had," she said.

"I welcome the appointment of Dr. Ted Herbosa...who brings to the [DOH] a wealth of wisdom earned from a long career devoted to healing people, caring for communities, and working with stakeholders of the health sector," Co said.

"We in Congress are aware of Secretary Herbosa’s credentials, reputation for producing effective results, and diplomatic character—all of which are essential to navigating the many issues and challenges facing the DOH," she added.

The late Flavier served as DOH chief from 1992 to 1995 under the Ramos administration.

His Wikipedia entry reads: "During his term, he initiated various health programs such as Oplan Alís Disease, Kontra Kolera, Stop TB, Araw ng Sangkáp Pinoy, Family Planning and Doctor to the Barrios Program. During his term barangay health workers were organized...He was regularly rated one of the most popular government officials and his department one of the most effective. He was perhaps the most popular Secretary of Health."

Flavier served as senator from 1995 to 2007 and was often praised for his honestly and hardworking nature. He passed away at the age of 79 in 2014.