Dr. Teodoro "Teddy" J. Herbosa, the 30th Secretary of Health of the Philippines, is a distinguished Trauma Surgeon and Emergency Medicine Physician renowned both locally and internationally for his expertise in healthcare systems and public health. He earned his medical degree from the University of the Philippines Manila and holds a bachelor's degree in Biology from the University of the Philippines in Diliman. Additionally, he completed an International Diploma Course in Emergency and Crisis Management from the University of Geneva, pursued postgraduate studies in Medicine from the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, and a ministerial leadership course at Harvard University.
With a career spanning various crucial roles, Secretary Herbosa served as Undersecretary at the Department of Health from 2010 to 2015, where he contributed significantly to initiatives such as the Hospital Accreditation Commission and the Modernization of the Philippine Orthopedics Center. In addition, Secretary Herbosa was instrumental in the passing of the Sin Tax Act which restructured the excise tax on alcohol and tobacco products.
Secretary Herbosa's impact extends globally through his involvement in international collaborations and roles, including serving on the Board of Directors for the World Association for Disaster and Emergency Medicine (WADEM) and as a Medical Consultant/Adviser for various organizations. Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he served as a Special Adviser to the National Task Force Against COVID-19, offering expert guidance and contributing to the formulation of strategies to mitigate the impact of the virus.
A dedicated educator and public servant, Secretary Herbosa has played key roles in academia, including teaching at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine and the National Defense College of the Philippines. His commitment to advancing healthcare systems and saving lives is exemplified by his involvement in establishing trauma and emergency medicine programs, as well as his contributions to international initiatives such as the WHO safe surgery checklist.
As Secretary of Health, Dr. Herbosa championed the health sector’s medium-term strategic direction through the 8-Point Action Agenda, “Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Bawat Buhay Mahalaga.” His flagship programs include the establishment of Bagong Urgent and Ambulatory Care and Services (BUCAS Centers) across the country, and the implementation of PuroKalusugan.
Under his leadership, the Department of Health has significantly expanded its presence on the global health stage. Secretary Herbosa currently serves as:
- Chair, Stop TB Partnership Board (2025–2027)
- Chair, WHO Western Pacific Regional Office Emergency Medical Teams (WPRO EMT) Board
- Member, UN Health4Life Fund Steering Committee (2025–2027)
- Member, UNAIDS Programme Coordinating Board (2025–2027)
- Member, Governing Board of the Pandemic Fund (2025–2027)
He led the successful hosting of two major international events in the Philippines: the Philippine Pacific Health Initiative in December 2024 and the 7th Global Ministerial Summit on Patient Safety in April 2025. A historic milestone of his term was his presidency over the 78th World Health Assembly, marking the first time the Philippines held this esteemed position in WHO history.
In his multifaceted role as Surgeon, Educator, Public Servant, and Global Health Leader Secretary Ted Herbosa epitomizes a commitment to improving healthcare systems and saving lives, both within the Philippines and beyond.
