A MONTH after being appointed by Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa, Dr Anthony Leachon has resigned from his post as special adviser for non-communicable diseases.
In a letter to Herbosa dated September 11, Leachon, a renowned internist and cardiologist, said his resignation was “effective immediately.”
“This decision has not been made lightly, and it comes after much thought and consideration,” he said.
“I have made this decision after careful consideration, and it is based on personal reasons that I believe are best for me, my family, and my future,” he also said.
The DOH announced his appointment on August 11 of Leachon.
His appointment came under fire last week as Iloilo Rep. Janette Garin, a former health secretary, questioned Leachon’s qualifications, saying he does is not an expert public health.
In a statement yesterday, Leachon said the questions over his qualifications served as an “eye opener” for him in coming up with the decision.
“At this stage, I do not have to prove anything anymore. Well, you may find it difficult to cope with the situation, but eventually, you will learn to value yourself and not run after people, positions, and relationships that are not meant for you,” he said.
“I don’t deserve to be maligned in public and not given the authority or chance to defend myself,” he added.
Leachon also said he is resigning to spare his family from potential criticisms if he chooses to stay on.
“Even my noble aspirations and all of my actions to serve the country will be placed under the microscope, and the vicious attacks against me will never stop,” he said.
“My family is my life, and everything else comes second as far as what’s important to me. I want to spare my family from this matter,” he added.
