Dr. Jose 'Brix' Pujalte Jr. was sworn in as the new Secretary of the Department of Health (DOH) on July 14, 2026, following the resignation of Teodoro Herbosa.
Pujalte, a seasoned orthopedic surgeon, brings over three decades of medical experience to the position. He previously served as the chief of the Philippine Orthopedic Center (POC), a key institution in the country’s healthcare system.
A Legacy of Leadership in Healthcare
First and foremost, hospital employees were asking, where would the poor go?
Jose Brix Pujalte Jr.
His father, Dr. Jose Magallanes Pujalte, also led the POC during the administration of former President Ferdinand E. Marcos, establishing a family legacy in medical leadership.
- 35 years of medical practice, focusing on orthopedics.
- Former chief of the Philippine Orthopedic Center since 2014.
- Advocate against the privatization of specialty hospitals.
Pujalte earned his medical degree at the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila in 1990 and furthered his education with a master's in hospital administration from Ateneo in 1996.
He has also held prominent positions in various professional organizations, including the Philippine Orthopedic Association and the ASEAN Orthopedic Association.
His advocacy includes a strong stance against policies that could jeopardize access to healthcare for indigent patients, reflecting his commitment to social equity in health.
Pujalte's appointment comes at a critical time for the Philippine healthcare system, which faces challenges such as rising patient costs and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.
As he takes on this new role, stakeholders in the health sector are closely watching how his experience will influence policy decisions moving forward.