The Department of Health (DOH) confirmed the appointment of retired PNP chief Camilo Cascolan as one of the undersecretaries of the agency on Sunday, October 23. 

In a press statement released by DOH, Cascolan will be filling one of the positions alongside several undersecretaries. DOH also confirmed the reappointment of Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande as the health assistant secretary.

“Yes, we confirm the receipt of appointment papers of Mr. Camilo Cascolan, Atty. Charade Mercado-Grande and several directors. We will make available the assignments of our Execom members to you as soon as available." 

Hailing from Baguio City, Cascolan belongs to the PMA Class of 1986 together with Senator Bato Dela Rosa. He is also one of the police generals who crafted the Oplan Double Barrel used during the anti-drug  operations known as the infamous Oplan Tokhang under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte. Incoming undersecretary Cascolan is  also among the group of police known as the 'Davao Boys' linked to former President Duterte.

The announcement of the new undersecretary drew mixed opinions from netizens and health group organizations.

The Alliance of Health Workers - AHW National denounced President Bongbong Marcos Jr.'s appointment stating that  it was a "clear manifestation of the President’s extreme lack of concern for the lives, health, safety and welfare of the health workers and the entire Filipino nation."

The AHW considered the appointment a huge insult to the health experts who are most qualified to administer the agency.

The administration has also yet to announce a DOH secretary amidst the health system condition of the country. AHW urgently asked PBBM to appoint a secretary as soon as possible. 

"Once again, health workers urgently call PBBM to appoint a DOH Secretary now. A DOH chief who is determined to protect and defend the health workers against discrimination, intimidation and violence including cases of red-tagging and killings. One who values the justness of the health workers call for salary increase, better benefits and humane working conditions. A DOH Chief that will prioritize the people’s health more than anything."