Dr. Jose “Brix” Pujalte Jr. has stepped down from his post as Health Secretary after serving for roughly a month, citing health issues for his voluntary resignation, according to Malacañang.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has named former PhilHealth head Dr. Edwin Mercado to replace Pujalte, Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed on Monday.
“Kusang nag-resign si Pujalte dahil sa kaniyang kalusugan,” Castro said.
Pujalte’s departure coincides with a formal complaint filed against him before the Office of the Ombudsman regarding allegations that he halted the procurement of critical tuberculosis supplies.
Palace officials previously noted that Malacañang will defer to the Ombudsman while the investigation proceeds.
Pujalte assumed leadership of the Department of Health in July following the departure of former Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, who likewise resigned citing health grounds.