New health chief Duque ready to face appointments commission

October 30, 2017

Francisco Duque, recently appointed by President Rodrigo Duterte to return to his old post as secretary of the Department of Health, said he is ready to face the Commission on Appointments.

The bicameral commission rejected the ad interim appointment of Paulyn Jean Ubial as health secretary earlier this month.

In an interview after attending the flag ceremony, Duque said: “We will do what needs to be done and we will value the sentiments of the CA members,” said Duque. “I am not saying I am confident but I will try my best.”

He said he would be open to concerns that will be raised by the members of the commission.

“Let us keep in mind that whatever are being asked by our CA members, it is not for them but for their constituents. We must always remember that our health programs do not distinguish whether they are from the administration or opposition. This has to be a unifying program, where it is non-partisan,” said Duque.

Speaking before health department officials and employees, Duque said he was disappointed Ubial was not confirmed as secretary of health.

“When she was not confirmed, I told myself what a big loss to the DOH because we saw that she did rose from the ranks and showcased passion, hard work, skill, and dedication that are very difficult to match. She truly is an exemplary public servant,” said Duque.

Duque was health secretary from June 2005 to January 2010.

“We want to resume the provision of impactful and valuable health programs that can be felt by our kababayans, much like what we did from 2005 to 2010 as seen in the consistent high approval ratings received by the DOH then,” said Duque.

Ubial, who was an assistant secretary during Duque's term was present during the flag ceremony. DMS