DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa (INQUIRER File PHOTO)
MANILA, Philippines — Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa on Thursday apologized for his previous – but unspecified — statements and sought public support for his new role as the Department of Health’s (DOH) top post.
Herbosa’s apology came in response to a public tweet on Twitter, questioning why an alleged number of “kakampinks” – a nickname tagged for supporters of former Vice President Leni Robredo – are backing his recent appointment as health secretary.
“Thank you for your support! And I apologize for [the] things I have said before! Thank you,” said Herbosa.
“We are all Filipinos! DOH will need all your support to really succeed in building a healthy Philippines. Maybe we should all start healing because I know you all love our country,” he added.
Thank you for your support! And I apologize for things I have said before! Thank you. We are all FILiPiNOS! DOH will need all your support to really succeed in building a healthy Philippines. Maybe we should all start healing because I know you all love our country!
— Teddy Herbosa MD ❎ (@Teddybird) June 7, 2023
Herbosa also thanked DOH Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire, the department’s officer-in-charge before his appointment, and the entire agency for their “warm welcome.”
Long day – meetings yesterday w/ top officials of the DOH. I am humbled for the very warm welcome & you have made me feel at home at DOH! Thank you Usec Vergeire for your leadership at the DOH. Let’s work together for the healthcare of all Filipinos specially the marginalized.
— Teddy Herbosa MD ❎ (@Teddybird) June 7, 2023
Herbosa also thanked several supporters in tweets, including health advocate and former Philippine College of Physicians president Dr. Tony Leachon.
Previous statements, backlash
Herbosa has been criticized after issuing several statements in the past.
One of the most notable was his “death by community pantry” remark — which he made during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic when a senior citizen died while waiting in line at a community pantry.
The backlash from this statement even ended with him resigning as vice president of the University of the Philippines.
Death by “Community Pantry”. I told you so! pic.twitter.com/6TXyha7Aho
— Teddy Herbosa MD ❎ (@Teddybird) April 23, 2021
Another controversial statement was when he thanked healthcare workers – except those who joined protests on National Heroes’ Day in 2021.
Except yung mga nag protest ha! pic.twitter.com/0g04PURqOl
— Teddy Herbosa MD ❎ (@Teddybird) August 30, 2021
On Monday, June 5, the Presidential Communications Office announced Herbosa’s appointment as health secretary.
He took his oath of office the following day before President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.