Health Secretary Teodoro “Ted” Herbosa will remain at the helm of the Department of Health (DOH), following his retention by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in the latest Cabinet reshuffle.

At a press briefing in Malacañang on Thursday, Herbosa announced an intensified government response to HIV amid a concerning rise in new infections nationwide.

“From January to March 2025, we recorded an average of 57 new HIV cases daily,” he said.

“In response, the DOH has expanded the distribution of free anti-retroviral (ARV) drugs to people living with HIV, in line with President Marcos’ directive to simplify access to these services in major hospitals.”

He also unveiled the rollout of a patient appointment system – implemented last week at San Lazaro Hospital and more recently at Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, specifically for pregnant women – aimed at improving access to HIV consultations and medications.

“This system ensures that persons living with HIV can consult regularly and consistently receive free maintenance ARV drugs,” he said. “We also provide counseling to help them manage their condition and live long, healthy lives.”

Free HIV screening and confirmatory testing are also available at DOH-run HIV hubs, including San Lazaro.

“HIV is no longer a death sentence,” Herbosa emphasized.

“With proper care, it can be managed like hypertension or diabetes. The key is regular consultation and medication, which we are working to make fully accessible.”

Strengthening global health ties

Herbosa also highlighted the Philippines’ active role in global health leadership, particularly as the country presides over the World Health Assembly – the top decision-making body of the World Health Organization, composed of 194 member states.

“It was a historic opportunity for the Philippines to help shape global health policy, especially for middle- and low-income countries,” he said.

“Diseases know no borders – our participation in global health efforts is essential.”

Together with DOH President and CEO Dr. Erwin Mercado, Herbosa met with the Filipino community in Geneva to discuss expanded healthcare access for overseas Filipino workers.

“Our leadership in the World Health Assembly reflects President Marcos’ commitment to strengthening global partnerships,” Herbosa said.

“The DOH supports this by ensuring our health diplomacy is both strategic and people-centered.”

A steady hand in public health

Herbosa’s retention affirms his longstanding role in shaping Philippine healthcare. A renowned surgeon, educator, and disaster response expert, he previously served as DOH undersecretary from 2010 to 2015 and was appointed Secretary of Health in 2023.

He has been a staunch advocate of Universal Health Coverage, the modernization of public hospitals, and strategic collaboration with the private sector to expand access to medical services.

A pioneer in emergency medicine, Herbosa founded the country’s first fellowship and residency programs in trauma surgery and emergency medicine at the University of the Philippines, where he also helped establish the Center for Research in Emergency Medicine. He continues to serve as a professor at the UP-Philippine General Hospital and the National Telehealth Center.

A member of Upsilon Sigma Phi, Herbosa is widely respected for his commitment to public service and academic excellence.

As the Marcos administration presses ahead with its health reforms, Herbosa’s continued leadership reinforces the government’s focus on disaster readiness, digital innovation, and inclusive access to healthcare.

“The Philippines must not be left behind in global health,” Herbosa said. “Our goal is to build a modern, resilient, and inclusive healthcare system for all Filipinos.”