THE Department of Health (DOH) and members of the health sector on Tuesday mourned the passing of former health secretary Alfredo Rafael Antonio Bengzon.
Bengzon served as the agency’s secretary from 1986 to 1992. He was 90 years old.
In a Facebook post, DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa expressed his condolences and paid tribute to Bengzon’s legacy.
“Bengzon’s legacy as Secretary of Health is marked by his courageous efforts to make health care more accessible and affordable for Filipinos,” Herbosa said.
He credited Begzon for championing the Generic Drug Law, advocating for access to family planning resources and reorganizing the agency, which he said eliminated “corrupt practices and emphasized public education.”
“Bengzon’s contributions to health care and social reform earned him the 1991 Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service. He continues to be recognized for his leadership in health care,” Herbosa said.
Meanwhile, The Medical City (TMC) and the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH) also expressed their condolences, honoring Bengzon as their former president and CEO, and founding dean, respectively.
“In the private sector, he was respected for his leadership and for elevating standards of patient care and medical excellence at TMC. He also played a key role in shaping future health professionals through his leadership in academia,” the TMC said in a Facebook post.
TMC also noted that Bengzon left a lasting legacy for his service.
“Through his vision and leadership, ASMPH was established, and generations of physicians were formed in the service of the Filipino people. His legacy will continue to guide our community,” the ASMPH said in a separate Facebook post.
