The Department of Health (DOH) has expressed its approval of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s decision to appoint Dr. Edwin Mercado as the new President and Chief Executive Officer of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). The announcement was made on Tuesday in Manila.
Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who also serves as the chair of the PhilHealth Board of Directors, expressed his eagerness to collaborate with Dr. Mercado. In a statement, Herbosa extended gratitude to President Marcos for the appointment and acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing PCEO, Emmanuel R. Ledesma, Jr., while looking forward to future collaborations with Dr. Mercado.
Dr. Mercado, an orthopedic surgeon, completed his medical education and training at the UP College of Medicine – Philippine General Hospital. He further enhanced his qualifications with a master’s degree in healthcare administration from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill and another in global health delivery from the Harvard School of Medicine.
Since March 2021, Dr. Mercado has been serving as the vice chairperson of the Mercado General Hospital/Qualimed Health Network. He is also actively engaged in health economics, contributing to the implementation of the Universal Health Care Act.
On Tuesday morning, Dr. Mercado took his oath of office in Malacañang before President Marcos. In a separate statement, PhilHealth welcomed Dr. Mercado’s appointment and pledged full support as he assumes leadership of the organization. They expressed confidence in his medical expertise and leadership skills, anticipating continued success in fulfilling the National Health Insurance Program’s mandate and advancing Universal Health Care for all Filipinos.
PhilHealth also recognized the efforts of Emmanuel R. Ledesma, Jr., highlighting the reforms implemented during his tenure, particularly in claims payments and benefit enhancements.