Chiapas Honors Federal Health Secretary with Prestigious Award

Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Chiapas – In a solemn session held at the Congress of Chiapas, Governor Eduardo Ramírez Aguilar presented the Doctor Manuel Velasco Suárez-2025 medal to the Federal Secretary of Health, David Kershenobich. The award recognizes Kershenobich’s altruism, social commitment, and significant contributions to public health in Mexico.

Recognition of Dedication to Public Health

The ceremony, which took place on February 25, 2026, at the state legislature, acknowledged Kershenobich’s dedication to strengthening public health initiatives and his commitment to a more humane and comprehensive approach to medicine. Governor Ramírez Aguilar bestowed the honor in the presence of key legislative and judicial figures, including Alejandra Gómez Mendoza, President of the Board of Directors of the Congress, and Juan Carlos Moreno Guillén, President of the Superior Court of Justice.

Kershenobich’s Vision for Mexican Healthcare

Upon receiving the medal, Secretary Kershenobich emphasized the need for a healthcare system that prioritizes accessibility, human connection, and holistic care. He stated that modern Mexican medicine must be “closer, more humane and more integral.” He further highlighted that a robust health system relies not only on infrastructure and technology but also on the dedication of healthcare professionals. Source

Honoring a Legacy of Humanism

Kershenobich also paid tribute to Doctor Manuel Velasco Suárez, whose name the medal bears, recognizing his lasting legacy of ethical practice and humanistic vision within the medical field. He noted that Velasco Suárez’s life exemplified a dedication to patients, students, and society, and that his work laid the foundation for modern medical practice in Mexico. He expressed hope that the name of Dr. Velasco Suárez would serve as a constant reminder that technical excellence must be coupled with ethical awareness and that scientific knowledge is, at its core, an act of service. Source

Moment of Silence for Fallen Service Members

Prior to the presentation of the medal, a minute of silence was observed in remembrance of members of the Armed Forces who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Source

Attendees

The ceremony was attended by members of the Sixty-Ninth Legislature, the President of the Judicial Council, Juan Carlos Moreno Guillén, Jesús Agustín Velasco Suárez Siles, son of Doctor Manuel Velasco Suárez, Gloria Brenda Leff de Kershenobich and Sandra Kershenobich, wife and daughter of the honoree, as well as military commanders, senators, federal deputies, and members of the legal and expanded cabinet and autonomous bodies. Source