PhilHealth Chief Mercado Resigns Amid Marcos Shake-Up
2 min read
Dr. Edwin Mercado Steps Down as PhilHealth Chief Following Executive Order to Resign
MAY 29,2025
Dr. Edwin Mercado, acting president and CEO of PhilHealth, has submitted his courtesy resignation. The move follows President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive for an executive-level reset after the 2025 midterm elections.
PhilHealth confirmed the news in a statement:
“Bilang pagsunod sa direktiba ni Pangulong Ferdinand Marcos Jr. ay nagsumite na ng kaniyang courtesy resignation ang aming acting president and CEO Dr. Edwin M. Mercado.”
This comes after the Governance Commission for GOCCs (GCG) ordered all non-ex-officio chairpersons, CEOs, and appointed directors of state firms to submit their resignations. These must be sent to the President through the Office of the Executive Secretary.
PhilHealth Chief Mercado’s Resignation Follows Public Criticism
Dr. Mercado, an orthopedic surgeon, was appointed in February. His term started amid public outrage over the P60-billion transfer of PhilHealth funds to the national treasury. Health groups criticized the move, claiming it lacked transparency and put the public at risk.
His resignation aligns with a broader call for Cabinet secretaries to step down. Last week, President Marcos said this is part of a government recalibration. The move aims to respond to growing public frustration over leadership and governance.
“The people are tired of politics and disappointed with the government,” the President said, reflecting on the results of the 2025 elections.
PhilHealth’s Future Under Watch
With Mercado stepping down, questions now focus on the future of PhilHealth. Millions rely on the agency for health insurance. The next leader will face pressure to deliver reforms, restore trust, and ensure better service delivery.
The resignation signals a major shift. Filipinos now expect stronger, more accountable leadership in healthcare and beyond. NOWTREND
About The Author
