Former Health Undersecretary and public health expert Dr. Susan Mercado has been designated by the World Health Organization (WHO) as the director for programme management in the Western Pacific.
This was announced by the Department of Health (DOH), who welcomed Mercado's appointment.
Mercado made history as the first Filipino to hold the second-highest position at the Manila-based United Nations office.
“Women are disproportionately affected by health problems. Dr. Mercado, an established female public health leader, brings experience, ethics and expertise to the table. More importantly, she has always – and will continue to – redress gender imbalance for health equity,” the DOH said in a statement.
Health Secretary Ted Herbosa is positive about the appointment of Mercado as HO director for programme management.
“Dr. Susan Mercado deserves the honor of this appointment. RD Saia has chosen his deputy well— the Philippines and our fellow member states will find that she can be counted on to deliver for the health of all peoples of the Western Pacific. Congratulations!” Herbosa said.
Mercado served as a special envoy of the President on Global Health Initiatives in 2018 under the Duterte administration.
She was also named one of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by the non-profit Filipina Women's Network
