Why was DOH's Vergeire removed? Health advocates seeking answers

More than 50 health and medical organizations are left questioning the quiet mid-July removal of Health Undersecretary Maria Rosario Clarissa Singh-Vergeire, who was replaced without recognition of her service. Malacañang simply said her term had “expired, effective immediately.”

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In a statement on Monday, August 4, the Healthcare Professionals Alliance Against COVID-19 (HPAAC) commended Singh-Vergeire for her “unwavering science-based leadership” during the pandemic.

“Her calm and credible presence helped guide Filipinos through uncertainty, and her consistent engagement with the healthcare community earned her deep respect across sectors,” the alliance said.

As the Department of Health spokesperson during the COVID-19 pandemic, she became a vital source of information for millions of Filipinos seeking answers in a time of crisis.

Health advocates also called Singh-Vergeire a “trusted partner” who had been open to dialogue and committed to implementing the Universal Health Care.

She later went on to serve as the DOH’s officer-in-charge until Teodoro Herbosa was named Health Secretary. Even then, some had already questioned why she was not appointed to the post permanently, despite serving the agency for nearly two decades.