Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, September 8) – Recently appointed Department of Health (DOH) adviser Dr. Tony Leachon on Friday said people in government should focus on addressing “public safety and medical problems” instead of “discrediting” other officials.
“I ask you to turn away from the spectacle of the political moves to discredit people doing their jobs,” Leachon tweeted. “And to return our full attention and focus to all the challenges and all the promise for the next generation of Filipinos.”
Leachon, who was named DOH special adviser for non-communicable diseases, made the statement after his expertise was questioned during the DOH budget deliberations on Wednesday.
Former DOH chief Jannette Garin questioned Leachon’s expertise as lawmakers found out that Leachon does not have a masters or doctorate degree in public health to be considered an expert.
Before his current position in the Health department, Leachon served as a COVID-19 task force adviser.
Leachon is a cardiologist at Manila Doctors’ Hospital.
Garin also raised concerns about paying Leachon, “whose statements were always skewed and malicious,” ₱100,000 for his position as DOH adviser.
Leachon said he could work without compensation.
“I take my responsibility for my part in all of this in trying to teach and educate patients on public safety and medical problems, to heal helpless people and lead where people refuse to take on due to the fear of reprisals,” he said.
