18/08/2026
The Council extends its warmest congratulations to Dr. Edwin Mercado on his appointment as the new Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH), and to Dr. Beverly Ho on her appointment as the Acting President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth).
Both leaders have been long-standing partners of the Council in advancing health research and evidence-based policy.
Dr. Mercado has been a steadfast champion of our shared initiatives, particularly through his collaborative work on the PhilHealth STUDIES Program, a joint initiative of the Council and PhilHealth. Dr. Ho has likewise been a valued collaborator and ally in health innovation, building on her tenure as DOH Assistant Secretary.
We look forward to partnering with you to advance Universal Health Care for all Filipinos through health research! đź’™