The election of Health Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa as president of the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA) marks a significant recognition of the Philippines’ commitment to advancing global health, Malacañang said Thursday.

Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro confirmed that this is the first time a Philippine health official has been elected to preside over the WHA, the highest decision-making body of the World Health Organization (WHO).

Herbosa is presiding over the 78th session being held in Geneva, Switzerland, from May 19 to 27, where the assembly is tackling key health priorities including pandemic preparedness and response.

Castro noted that the WHA, during this session, adopted the first-ever Pandemic Agreement following three years of negotiations.

The landmark accord aims to ensure equitable access to life-saving pandemic-related products and establish mechanisms for global prevention, preparedness, and response to future health emergencies.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. welcomed Herbosa’s election, viewing it as a reflection of the country’s dedication to global health and a tribute to the efforts of Filipino health workers during and after the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

“Tinanaw ni Pangulong Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. ang WHA presidency bilang pagkilala sa adhikain ng Pilipinas na isulong ang world health. Paggunita rin ito sa kontribyusyon ng Pinoy healthcare workers matapos ang Covid-19 pandemic (President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. sees the WHA presidency as recognition of the Philippines’ commitment to promoting world health. It is also a tribute to the contributions of Filipino healthcare workers after the Covid-19 pandemic),” Castro said in a Palace press briefing.

She added the President considers Herbosa’s role as an opportunity for the country to highlight its commitment to health and show that Philippine policies are aligned with global solutions.

“Pagkakataon din ang WHA presidency para maipakita sa mundo ang pagbibigay-halaga ng Pilipinas sa kalusugan (The WHA presidency is an opportunity to show the world how much the Philippines values health),” Castro said.

“Tumutugma rin aniya ang mga polisiya ng bansa sa mga minumungkahing solusyon sa paglutas ng health issues ng mundo (The country’s policies also align with the proposed solutions to global health issues).” (PNA)