Marcos appoints new PhilHealth president and CEO

Metro Manila, Philippines – An orthopedic surgeon with 35 years of experience in hospital management has been appointed as the new president and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PhilHealth). The leadership change comes as the state health insurer operates this year without government subsidy.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. administered the oath of office to Dr. Edwin M. Mercado in Malacañang on Tuesday, February 4. Mercado replaces Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. as the head of PhilHealth.

In a statement, Malacañang described Mercado as a U.S.-trained orthopedic surgeon with extensive experience in hospital management.

Since March 2021, he has served as vice chairman of Mercado General Hospital/Qualimed Health Network.

"Mercado has dedicated his work to ensuring equitable access to quality medical care and leveraging technology to strengthen health systems, particularly in financial management and primary care programs," Malacañang said.

The palace did not elaborate on the reason behind Ledesma’s replacement.

DOH welcomes Mercado’s appointment

The Department of Health (DOH) welcomed Mercado’s appointment, highlighting his expertise in health economics.

"We thank outgoing PCEO Emmanuel R. Ledesma Jr. for his service and look forward to working with new PCEO Dr. Edwin Mercado very soon," said Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, who also serves as chairperson of the PhilHealth Board of Directors.