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Advocates Philippines
Herbosa Steps Down As DOH Chief After Knee Surgery
Photo credit: Ted Herbosa
Dr. Teodoro Herbosa has resigned from his post as health secretary after undergoing successful bilateral knee replacement surgery, saying his recovery should not interfere with the Department of Health's daily operations.
In a public statement, Herbosa shared that he underwent surgery on both knees on July 7, 2026, and will need to complete physical therapy as part of his rehabilitation.
"Nitong July 7, 2026, naging matagumpay ang aking bilateral knee replacement surgery. Matapos ang operasyon sa pareho kong tuhod, kailangan kong makumpleto ang aking physical therapy para sa tuluyan kong paggaling."
He explained that his decision to resign was made to ensure the agency continues to function without disruption while he focuses on his recovery.
"Hindi pwedeng maapektuhan ng aking rehabilitation at therapy ang araw-araw na trabaho ng Department of Health."
Herbosa said he has already submitted his resignation letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and thanked the President for the trust and opportunity to serve as the country's 30th Secretary of Health.
During his tenure, Herbosa highlighted several key health initiatives launched under the administration, including Zero Balance Billing, BUCAS Centers, PuroKalusugan, PhilHealth YAKAP, GAMOT, and eMAIFIP. He added that while progress has been made, more work remains to fully achieve the administration's healthcare goals.
The outgoing health chief also expressed his continued support for President Marcos' programs and extended his congratulations to incoming Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr., wishing him success as he takes over the leadership of the Department of Health.
Herbosa ended his message by thanking the entire DOH team for their support during his time in office.
In a public statement, Herbosa shared that he underwent surgery on both knees on July 7, 2026, and will need to complete physical therapy as part of his rehabilitation.
"Nitong July 7, 2026, naging matagumpay ang aking bilateral knee replacement surgery. Matapos ang operasyon sa pareho kong tuhod, kailangan kong makumpleto ang aking physical therapy para sa tuluyan kong paggaling."
He explained that his decision to resign was made to ensure the agency continues to function without disruption while he focuses on his recovery.
"Hindi pwedeng maapektuhan ng aking rehabilitation at therapy ang araw-araw na trabaho ng Department of Health."
Herbosa said he has already submitted his resignation letter to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and thanked the President for the trust and opportunity to serve as the country's 30th Secretary of Health.
During his tenure, Herbosa highlighted several key health initiatives launched under the administration, including Zero Balance Billing, BUCAS Centers, PuroKalusugan, PhilHealth YAKAP, GAMOT, and eMAIFIP. He added that while progress has been made, more work remains to fully achieve the administration's healthcare goals.
The outgoing health chief also expressed his continued support for President Marcos' programs and extended his congratulations to incoming Health Secretary Jose Pujalte Jr., wishing him success as he takes over the leadership of the Department of Health.
Herbosa ended his message by thanking the entire DOH team for their support during his time in office.
Jul 13, 2026
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