The Department of Health (DOH) extended warm congratulations on Thursday, Feb. 1, to former Undersecretary Dr. Susan Pineda-Mercado for her appointment as the World Health Organization (WHO) Director for Programme Management (DPM) in the Western Pacific.
It said that this esteemed position marked her as the “first Filipino” to hold the second-highest post in a WHO region.
DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa expressed his excitement for the future, stating, “The future is bright—Maganda ang ating bukas! Dr. Susan Mercado deserves the honor of this appointment. RD Saia has chosen his deputy well; the Philippines and our fellow Member States will find that she can be counted on to deliver for the health of all peoples in the Western Pacific. Congratulations!”
The appointment was officially announced by the new WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific, Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala, earlier on Feb. 1.
Moreover, Mercado's selection for this critical role underscored her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing public health on a global scale.
The DOH emphasized the significance of Mercado's appointment, noting that she brings a wealth of experience, ethics, and expertise to the table.
As a seasoned female public health leader, she is well-positioned to address the disproportionate health challenges faced by women.
The DOH highlighted her ongoing dedication to redressing gender imbalances for health equity, emphasizing her role in championing the well-being of all individuals in the Western Pacific region.
It added that this achievement not only reflects the excellence of Mercado but also underscored the Philippines' growing influence and leadership in international health organizations.