WHO names ex-DOH Usec. Mercado as programme management director in Western Pacific

Former Health Undersecretary Dr. Susan Mercado has been appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as its director for programme management in the Western Pacific.

The Department of Health (DOH) welcomed Mercado’s appointment, noting that she is the first Filipino entrusted with the second highest position in a WHO region.

The DOH said that WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific Dr. Saia Ma’u Piukala announced Mercado’s designation earlier on Thursday.

“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, meanwhile, said that the future is bright with Mercado serving as WHO 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.

In 2018, Mercado, who was then a special envoy of the President on Global Health Initiatives, was named one of the 100 Most Influential Filipina Women in the World by the non-profit Filipina Women's Network.

The female doctor had led the response to non-communicable diseases in her 15 years with the WHO. She was also earlier nominated for the position of WHO Regional Director for the Western Pacific. — RSJ, GMA Integrated News