MANILA, Philippines — Malacanang extended its condolences to the family of former Senator Juan Flavier who died after multiple organ failure and sepsis brought about by pneumonia at around 4 p.m. Thursday.
“We join the Filipino people in mourning the death of former Senator and Health Secretary Juan Flavier. As a public servant, he championed the cause of countryside development and upgrading the quality of public health care,” said Presidential Communication Operations Office Secretary Herminio Coloma, Jr., in a statement emailed to members of the Malacañang Press Corps.
The former health secretary turned Senator was 79 years old.
In 1992, he was appointed by former President Fidel V. Ramos to head the Department of Health. In 1995, he ran for Senate under the administration ticket.
Flavier was best known for the catchphrase “Let’s DOH it,” which he used to promote the department’s programs.
He was considered the poorest Senator as reflected in his statements of assets, liabilities and net worth.
“He served with integrity and endeared himself to the people by dint of his humility, simplicity, jovial character and common touch. Truly, he was an exemplary Filipino leader,” Coloma added. (from PND)
