The Medical Action Group expressed its concern regarding the statement made by Secretary of Health Herbosa during a Senate hearing. This statement may create an impression that the country’s top health official favors branded medicines over generic ones. While we acknowledge Secretary Herbosa’s extensive experience in hospital care, it is crucial to emphasize that as the Secretary of Health, one of his responsibilities is to ensure the effective implementation of health laws and regulations, including those related to generic medicine under the Cheaper Medicine Act.

We are worried that Secretary Herbosa’s sweeping statement may contribute to public distrust in generic medicine and the healthcare system, particularly in situations where there is a shortage of medicine supplies. It is important to remind the Department of Health through Sec Herbosa that:

1. The country’s leading public health authority should rely on evidence-based studies and policies instead of personal clinical experience. Personal opinions have limited weight in public health policy discussions, particularly those that can lead to health legislation.
2. If there are indeed instances of ineffective generic medicines, it is the duty of the Secretary of Health to investigate and, if necessary, order the pulling out of these medicines that do not meet the required quality standards mandated by law.

We believe that one of the keys in attaining universal healthcare is to ensure the provision of affordable and high-quality medicine to all.