Dr. Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa is a Filipino physician known for the vital roles he played in the country’s health sector. On Tuesday, June 6, Herbosa officially took oath as the secretary of the Department of Health (DOH).
“I am honored to serve this leadership and the Filipino people and their healthcare needs,” said Herbosa in a tweet.
Earlier, Malacañang implied that Herbosa's appointment was backed by his extensive knowledge and experience in healthcare systems, public health, and emergency medicine among others.
Dr. Teodoro "Ted" Herbosa's oathtaking as the Secretary of the Department of Health (Photo courtesy of Presidential Communications Office)
Going back to where it all started, Herbosa obtained both his bachelor's degree in Biology and medical degree from the University of the Philippines (UP).
Not only did he graduate from UP, he later served the institution and assisted in shaping it towards development.
“From 2017 until 2021, he assumed the role of the Executive Vice President of the UP System, holding various positions such as Chief Division of Trauma at the Department of Surgery at the Philippine General Hospital and Chairman of the Board for Physicians for Peace Philippines,” said Malacañang.
DOH
Not known to many, Herbosa is not new to the DOH.
From 2010 until 2015, he served as the department’s Undersecretary, making vital contributions in the following initiatives: Hospital Accreditation Commission, Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedics Center, and promoting Public-Private Partnerships in Health.
Following his appointment, the DOH has welcomed his return, saying that this development is crucial in the department’s operations.
Covid-19 Task Force
Amid the Covid-19 pandemic, Herbosa did not abandon public service. In fact, among the notable roles he played in the country’s health sector is his post as the Special Adviser to the National Task Force Against Covid-19.
This role made it possible for him to help come up with strategies to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 across the archipelago.
President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. officially appointed Herbosa as the DOH chief on Monday, June 5. Herbosa, on the other hand, vowed to continuously strengthen the country’s healthcare sector.