Cascolan DOH usec appointment backed
FORMER Health Secretary now Iloilo Representative Janette Garin supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s appointment of a policeman to the Department of Health (DOH).
In a statement, Garin said she sees no negative issue on the appointment of Camilo Cascolan, a retired police general who briefly served as Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), as Undersecretary of the DoH.
Cascolan’s appointment is being questioned as he is not fit to work in the health department.
But according to Garin, the delivery of health services is not just about doctors and scientists working together.
“We respect the Executive’s decision to appoint a non-doctor in the Department of Health. What is equally important is reaching the grassroots and feeling their pulse,” she said.
“The management skills of General Cascolan have long been proven in his several years of untainted service. Quick and timely response during calamities as well as coordinated implementation of programs under a devolved healthcare, not to mention the gigantic task of logistics and planning, are important factors in DOH,” Garin added.
While scientists and doctors play very important roles, non-medical managers are likewise needed to put order and implement programs, Garin pointed out.
“Let us allow the government to proceed with its tasks. Surely, each step the Executive is undertaking, is supported by a well-planned design to make the government more responsive to the needs of the people. Disciplined leadership with a heart is likewise important in making healthcare felt by every Filipino family,” she said.
