Dr. Manuel M. Dayrit is a distinguished Filipino physician and public health advocate. He earned his M.D. from the University of the Philippines and an M.Sc. from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. His work focuses on epidemic control, communicable diseases, and health advocacy.

As Secretary of Health (2001-2005), Dr. Dayrit led the Department of Health through critical challenges, including managing SARS, dengue, tuberculosis, and vaccine-derived polio outbreaks. He spearheaded health sector reforms, expanding access to PhilHealth coverage for indigent populations. Earlier, in 1990, the National Academy of Science and Technology recognized him as an Outstanding Young Scientist for his work on AIDS, cholera, and Red Tide control.

Dr. Dayrit also founded the Philippines’ Field Epidemiology Training Program (1986-1997), shaping future public health leaders. His achievements earned international recognition, including an Honorary Fellowship from the London School of Hygiene in 2006 and the UP Centennial Award for Health in 2008.