Duterte appoints Punzalan as new DOH undersecretary

Dr. Elmer Punzalan (left) being sworn into office by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III. CONTRIBUTED PHOTOS

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte has appointed veteran Department of Health official, Dr. Elmer Punzalan, as the agency’s new Undersecretary.

Punzalan, who was sworn into office by Health Secretary Francisco Duque III recently, has been assigned to the Field Implementation and Coordination Team National Capital Region and North Luzon (FICT-NCR and NL). As such, he will lead the administration and management including handling of complaints and all other representations and meetings for the Center for Health Developments, DOH Hospitals and Treatment Rehabilitation Centers in NCR and NL.

Further, he shall oversee the implementation of the Health Facilities Enhancement Program in the area.

Punzalan was a recipient of an award from the University of Santo Tomas as one of the inspiring 100 Outstanding Thomasian Scientists.

He is acclaimed for his trailblazing and visionary approach in improving the Philippine health system.

He was also cited for the organizational improvements he instilled in the DOH which presented a better ground for Filipinos especially the poor and underserved to entrust their health and wellbeing.