'Time to move on to other things': Eric Domingo resigns as FDA director general
Eric Domingo, the director general of the local Food and Drugs Administration, has resigned from his post on Jan. 3.
"Yes, effective today," Domingo told PhilSTAR L!fe in a text message. "I think I did my part to help during the pandemic."
Domingo said that while he's happy with his stint, "now it is time to move on to other things."
"The FDA is now stronger, more efficient and systems are in place," he said.
The Department of Health also confirmed Domingo's resignation, saying that FDA deputy director general Oscar Gutierrez will serve as officer in charge of the regulator for now.
Under Domingo's watch, the FDA has granted nine emergency use authorizations to nine COVID-19 vaccines and two treatment pills.
Domingo, who previously served as DOH undersecretary and spokesman, was appointed as FDA officer in charge in May 2019 after President Rodrigo Duterte fired its previous head Nela Charade Puno over corruption allegations.
Domingo was formally named as FDA director general in February 2020.
The government-mandated regulatory body ensures that health products like food, drugs, and vaccines are safe and effective. It also screens experimental medicines such as COVID-19 vaccines.
