Health Secretary Teodoro 'Ted' Herbosa has been on sick leave since July 6, 2026, for a knee replacement surgery.Health Undersecretary Albert Domingo confirmed the procedure was successful, and Herbosa is now undergoing physical therapy and rehabilitation.Herbosa shared a photo on Facebook with the caption 'New knee, new me,' indicating his recovery progress.While Herbosa is on leave, Domingo serves as the officer-in-charge (OIC) of the Department of Health (DOH).Domingo emphasized that this is a routine arrangement, noting it happens when the Secretary is temporarily unavailable.He did not specify Herbosa's expected return date.

The DOH has also launched initiatives like a program for returning overseas Filipino workers (OFW) nurses and health workers, and reported a 79% decrease in mpox cases compared to 2025.However, Herbosa faces legal challenges from workers alleging graft and grave misconduct.

The article highlights the administrative transition within the DOH and Herbosa's medical recovery, underscoring the balance between personal health and public service responsibilities.