ERIC Domingo has resigned as director general of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after three years at the regulatory agency that is playing a key role in the government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.
The resignation took effect yesterday, he said.
“I believe I did my part to help during the pandemic. The FDA is now stronger, more efficient, and systems are in place,” Domingo said when asked why he resigned.
“It’s time for me to move on to other things,” he added.
There was no word from Malacañang.
Domingo said he submitted his resignation last month to Health Secretary Francisco Duque III.
Prior to his appointment to the FDA, Domingo served as spokesman and undersecretary at the Department of Health.
The DOH confirmed Domingo’s resignation as it said in a statement that Dr. Oscar Gutierrez, FDA deputy director general, has been named officer in charge of the agency.
Domingo was appointed as FDA officer in charge in May 2019 after the firing of Charade Puno as FDA director general amid allegations of corruption. In February 2020, Domingo was given permanent appointment as the director general.
Under Domingo’s term, the FDA spearheaded the approval of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) testing kits used in the country. It was also during Domingo’s tenure when the FDA issued emergency use authorization for COVID-19 vaccines.
