By: Reigh John Bench Almendras
Former PNP Chief, Camilo Cascolan as he accepted the role of DOH undersecretary. Photo courtesy of Rappler.
The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed Ex-Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Camilo Cascolan's appointment as one of the agency’s undersecretaries on Sunday, October 23, 2022, replacing Dr. Roger Tong-an.
Cascolan is one of the authors of Oplan Double Barrel and known as one of the minds behind the “Oplan Tokhang” campaign under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte.
DOH also confirmed the reappointment of Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande as assistant secretary, and the appointment of several directors ranking three and four in the agency.
“Yes, we confirm the receipt of the appointment papers of Mr. Camilo Cascolan, Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande, and several directors,” DOH said in a statement.
The DOH secretary has yet to be appointed. The agency said it would provide further updates regarding appointments as soon as possible.
It is still unclear how Cascolan’s credentials in law enforcement will help him in his new role as DOH undersecretary.
The DOH has yet to announce the new undersecretary's tasks in the agency.