Malacañang has appointed Atty. Christian Lel Saquilabon as an undersecretary of the Department of Health (DoH) following the courtesy resignation of Undersecretary Emmie Liza Perez-Chiong.

Saquilabon was previously appointed assistant secretary and head of the Health Regulation and Facility Development Center in July.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. accepted Perez-Chiong’s resignation on the same day the newly appointed Health secretary, Dr. Jose Brittanio “Brix” Pujalte, took his oath of office.

Perez-Chiong said submitting a courtesy resignation was a proper and professional course of action in recognition of the President’s prerogative and the new Health secretary’s responsibility to determine the composition of the department’s leadership team.

“I tender this courtesy resignation to provide Your Excellency complete flexibility and a free hand to review, reorganize, and designate the most qualified officials best suited to carry out the strategic priorities of the Department,” Perez-Chiong said in a statement.

She said the resignation was submitted in full support of the new secretary’s leadership and vision for a stronger and more resilient health care system.

Perez-Chiong said the decision was made with professionalism and respect for the administration, the department and its incoming leadership.

She added that the move would facilitate a smooth transition and allow the new secretary to select officials he considers best suited to assist in carrying out the department’s priorities. She also thanked Marcos for the trust and confidence he extended during her tenure.

“I express my deepest gratitude for the trust and confidence you reposed in me during my tenure. Serving the public and contributing to the advancement of our nation’s health sector under your administration has been an immense honor and privilege,” she said.