The Department of Health on Sunday confirmed the appointment of former Philippine National Police chief Camilo Cascolan as an undersecretary.

"Yes, we confirm the receipt of the appointment papers of Mr. Camilo Cascolan, Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande and several directors," the DoH told reporters in a Viber message.

The Health department confirmed Cascolan's appointment days after his appointment letter surfaced on the Internet.

The appointment letter dated 19 October stated Cascolan's designation as undersecretary signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin.

The agency did not identify what would be Cascolan's role in the Health department, although his assignments will be made available "as soon as available."

Before his appointment in the Health department, the ex-PNP chief was appointed as Undersecretary at the Office of the President in February.

He stepped down as PNP chief after reaching the mandatory age of retirement of 56 in November last year.