Only a “Raymond Alonso” would be brave enough to unload such a statement in jest and still get away becoming more appealing and endearing to students and colleagues. Unfiltered yet refined. Calculating but fearless.
The layers of his persona are as vibrantly multi-colored as his chart entries, making Dr. Raymond Alonso one of the most iconic and well-loved faculty at the Philippine General Hospital. He throws out hard-hitting but truly insightful comments on paper and in person without fear or reservation, making sure that his messages are crystal clear. His default facial expression can send shivers down the spine of strangers and acquaintances. This seemingly menacing facade easily melts to unravel one of the most approachable, congenial and down-to-planet earth personalities one can ever hope to encounter.
He was well known for his insanely astute clinical eye and forward-thinking approach to management, not surprisingly meriting him the Most Distinguished Junior as well as Senior Consultant Award at the PGH Department of Medicine a number of times. Unperturbed by norms and trends, his illustrative style of teaching and dialytic approach to reasoning make him an effective teacher and mentor. But few would argue that one of his sterling and most endearing qualities is his witty candor and brand of timely humor that has made hospital work and patient care more enjoyable, humane and relatable.
To the Dean of Dialysis —Sir Raymond Alonso (1957 – 2025) — we salute you! Save some Diet Coke for us in heaven.
Genuine love does not need an explanation or justification. At times it even defies reason and explanation, and makes one do the seemingly impossible and unimaginable. It goes beyond the superficial, the romantic, the idealistic. It is not always happy, bright, ideal or feel-good. It does not rely on verbal expression to be known, to be heard and to be believed in. If that were the case, then the mute and the deaf would be incapable of loving. It persists in spite of or even because of uncertainty, frailty, disagreement, difficulty, or discontent.
The love given does not depend on the recipient, and does not necessarily have to be proportionate to the expected response or gain. At times it can even be wildly disproportionate. It does not depend on tomorrow to exist today. And it cannot truly be quantified nor compared. It does not deserve to be limited by human parameters of measurement. It is what it is. And when one chooses to love, that love is non-conditional and exists in unique form, special in its own way, not necessarily similar or comparable to any other.
Most of all, it should in reality serve as the most reliable and bankable source of faith and strength, rather than be the object of doubt. During times of joy and abundance, it serves to amplify a person’s goodness. During moments of desolation, it serves to provide the much needed emotional fuel to carry on. And the decision to let go of doubt is in itself a manifestation of love, love for oneself and for another.
Ultimately, one of the most undeniable expressions of love is gratitude.
Ultimately, one of the most undeniable expressions of love is gratitude. The gratitude to acknowledge another being, to celebrate one’s blessings, to look at what we have and not at what we don’t, to decide to look at the bright side even when things seem dim. The gratitude for being given the chance to love and be loved.
In the world of health and medicine, most luminaries distinguish themselves along a singular path, whether it be in the field of teaching, research or clinical service. Dr. Rody Sy is a rarebreed, as he has managed to excel in multiple aspects of the profession, doing so with his refreshing brand of simplicity and humility, something that is barely seen in the fast-paced and egocentric social-media driven world of today. No one would dare contest that Dr. Sy has an abundance of at least three things: wit, wealth, and warmth.
From the webinar: “The Cholesterol Dilemma: A Family Affair” (April 2022) by NAST
Listed in Marquis’ Who’s Who in Medicine and Healthcare (7th Edition 2009-2010) and one of Asia’s Top Scientists for Biomedical Science (Asia Scientist Magazine, 2019), Dr. Sy has become a household name when it comes to cardiovascular science, particularly in the field of lipidology, selflessly serving as the President of the Philippine Heart Association (1991-92), Philippine Lipid Society (1995-2002), and Asian Pacific Society of Atherosclerosis and Vascular Diseases (2002-2006). His investigative efforts have led to countless publications, many of which have made a palpable impact on health policy and practice (prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adult Filipinos, 2004; LDL-R gene mutation among Filipinos with Familial Hypercholesterolemia, 2005; Prevalence of atherosclerosis-related risk factors and diseases among adult Filipinos, 2012).
Rody Sy “brainwashing” his minions to join his next scientific adventure
His charisma is mindboggling, as he manages to win over some of the best minds in the country to jump into his bandwagon of scientific exploits and advocacies, noteworthy of which are the LIFECARE (LIFE course study in CARdiovascular disease Epidemiology) study group and the UP PGH Cardiovascular Genetics Study Group.
Aside from being a well-respected clinician, academician and researcher, Dr. Sy is well-known by many, particularly in key professional (Chair, UP PGH Department of Medicine, 2012-2015; Head of Cardiovascular Institute, Cardinal Santos Medical Center, 2005-2012) and advocacy organizations (Chairman, Pusong Pinoy Foundation, 2003-2011 and Sagip Buhay Medical Foundation, 2004-2012) for his business aptitude and organizational prowess. It seems like his resource-generating gene is mightily upregulated, allowing him to ensure the financial viability of various entrepreneurial and sociocivic exploits.
Despite his insanely well-decorated professional career (Professor Emeritus, UP College of Medicine; Distinguished Teacher, Scientist and Fellow of the Philippine Heart Association, 1996-1999), Dr. Sy remains to be well-loved by his patients, colleagues, mentees and students. The exceptional candor with which his wit, wealth and warmth are reverberated speaks of a rare breed of human that only a “Rody Sy” can pull off.
tribute penned by JDAMagno for the UP PGH Department of Medicine (2023)
If there was one person who epitomizes nonchalant wisdom, it is Dr. Gregorio Patacsil. His presence does not intimidate but rather inspires. Not a few may remember that prior to steering the Section of Cardiology of UP PGH from 1990-1995, Dr. Greg actually devoted tons of his time and effort serving and leading various institutions (Service Award in 1981 and 1992 and Loyalty Award in 1988, Philippine Heart Center) and local professional societies, such as the Philippine College of Physicians (President, 1989-1990) and Philippine Heart Association (President, 1980-1981). His extreme dedication to the field of cardiovascular medicine earned him the PHA Loyalty Award in 1988. This son of Tuguegarao (Outstanding Graduate of Cagayan High School, 1982) journeyed long and far (Medicine at UP; Internal Medicine Residency at UERM and St. Vincent’s Charity Hospital; and Cardiology at Cook County Hospital, University of Illinois) before ending up spending more than two decades of his professional life as a professor at the UP College of Medicine (Archie Leano Professorial Chair in Cardiology, 1992).
But beyond his administrative and leadership prowess, Manong Greg is widely beloved for his undeniable passion for teaching (Outstanding Teacher in the Clinical Sciences, UP College of Medicine, 1993), turning even the seemingly trivial moments into precious and often humorous opportunities for learning. His diagnostic acumen and prowess for bedside physical examination are unparalleled, as those who have been fortunate enough to witness his clinical exploits will attest to this. Some may wonder whether his fingertips are equipped with built-in auditory and sonographic scanning capability, as his capacity to clinch the accurate cardiovascular diagnosis with one sweep of his palm is legendary. Rightfully so, the PHA once again recognized the academician in him, according him the honor as Distinguished Teacher in 1998.
His capacity to clinch the accurate cardiovascular diagnosis with one sweep of his palm is legendary.
Manong Greg—A man…
full of wisdom
who appeals to your senses
who rejoices in your triumphs
who stimulates critical thinking
with impeccable focus
whose mind never sleeps
with good grasp of the issues that matter
who inspires the youth
who recognizes real talent
whose vision is clear and far-reaching
who touches hearts
In 2011, during the seeming twilight of his years, Dr. Patacsil gave what was to be his penultimate lecture, conducting one of the review sessions for prospective examinees for the Specialty Board of Adult Cardiology Certifying Examination. Those in attendance bore witness not just to how he matter-of-factly brushed off a heart attack in the line of duty as a teacher (Lecturer in Internal Medicine for medical students; Service Consultant, UP PGH Department of Medicine), but more importantly how his passion for teaching transcends talent and time. Until his very last moments, he stayed true to his calling as a teacher and mentor. Thank you “Manong Greg” for the laughs, the witty remarks, hilarious anecdotes, and precious pearls of clinical wisdom. We continue to cherish and honor your memory.
excerpts from the video tribute by JDAMagno (2011)
“We constantly need legitimate ‘norm challengers’ to intermittently rattle us out of complacency in our pursuit of what is good and true in our chosen vocation.”
I wrote this several years ago when I was a newbie professor at the UP College of Medicine, and this sentiment aptly describes our highly-revered Professor Antonio Miguel Limcaco Dans.
A classic disciple of discernment, Sir Tony deeply ingrained in many of his students (myself included) the value of critical thinking. And he managed to do this effortlessly, as countless trainees and professionals benefited from learning evidence-based medicine the ‘painless’ way.1 Little did we know that this mindset would serve as our critical compass to navigate the turbulent infodemic2 of today, where the rampage of false and misleading information continues to wreak havoc on the hapless minds of many.
His restlessness is driven by his innate desire to do genuine good. And that desire is clearly borne out of empathy, something that is not taught but rather demonstrated. In the current era of outcome-based education, teachers and curriculum developers in the healthcare sciences need to become more creative in their strategies to effectively emblazon empathy in the hearts of their students. Medical students are generally quite impressionable, and even a fleeting but meaningful encounter with a mentor can potentially make an indelible mark. To my mind, continuously cultivating a culture of inspiration in the medical profession can serve as that big X factor in the empathy equation. And many of us at the College of Medicine have enjoyed that culture, thanks to selfless mentors like Sir Tony.
He pursues his passions with reckless abandon. Even if that meant treading the unpopular path or creating a totally new one. Like a plane that banks on resistance for flight, he is fueled by opposition and adversity. It is indeed true that one’s identity becomes magnified under the most trying of times. But it is up to the person to decide which facet of his or her identity will be edified during such moments. Tony Dans has managed to do this deliberately in a manner that reflects the truest fibers of his personhood. And like a stubborn mixed martial arts fighter, he does not stop wrestling with an idea until he forces it into submission.
He is notorious for setting the bar…and breaking it. He asks questions to arrive at truths but also knows which truths to question. Because of his intensely-inquisitive mind, he found himself in the thick of some of the most controversial yet game-changing research efforts the world has seen (INTERHEART,3 INTERSTROKE,4 PURE,5 International Polycap Study,6 INVICTUS7). His passion for appraisal is probably rivaled only by his addiction to biking.
His infinitely intimidating achievements are overshadowed by his refreshingly simple presence – relaxed, reassuring, and painfully humorous (at times). He always deflects attention to his true boss, and is quick to make fun of himself to lighten the mood. He acknowledges the long line of mentors in his life, and treasures reverberating life lessons learned from them to those under his wing. In essence, he embodies the idea of giving back by paying forward, something that I and many of his hypnotized mentees have embraced.
So to this Trailblazer, Rebel, Patriot and universal Ninong — here is my simple birthday message for you — “Many retire. Some fade away. But you… you will linger.” – JDAM
1. Dans AL, Dans LF, and Silvestre MAA. Painless Evidence-Based Medicine, Second Edition. John Wiley & Sons Ltd; 2017.
2. Pool J, Fatehi F, Akhlaghpour S. Infodemic, Misinformation and Disinformation in Pandemics: Scientific Landscape and the Road Ahead for Public Health Informatics Research. Stud Health Technol Inform. 2021 May 27;281:764-768. doi: 10.3233/SHTI210278. PMID: 34042681.
3. Yusuf S, Hawken S, Ounpuu S, Dans T, Avezum A, Lanas F, McQueen M, Budaj A, Pais P, Varigos J, Lisheng L; INTERHEART Study Investigators. Effect of potentially modifiable risk factors associated with myocardial infarction in 52 countries (the INTERHEART study): case-control study. Lancet. 2004 Sep 11-17;364(9438):937-52. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(04)17018-9. PMID: 15364185.
4. Langhorne P, O’Donnell MJ, Chin SL, Zhang H, Xavier D, Avezum A, Mathur N, Turner M, MacLeod MJ, Lopez-Jaramillo P, Damasceno A, Hankey GJ, Dans AL, Elsayed A, Mondo C, Wasay M, Czlonkowska A, Weimar C, Yusufali AH, Hussain FA, Lisheng L, Diener HC, Ryglewicz D, Pogosova N, Iqbal R, Diaz R, Yusoff K, Oguz A, Wang X, Penaherrera E, Lanas F, Ogah OS, Ogunniyi A, Iversen HK, Malaga G, Rumboldt Z, Magazi D, Nilanont Y, Rosengren A, Oveisgharan S, Yusuf S; INTERSTROKE collaborators. Practice patterns and outcomes after stroke across countries at different economic levels (INTERSTROKE): an international observational study. Lancet. 2018 May 19;391(10134):2019-2027. doi: 10.1016/S0140-6736(18)30802-X. Epub 2018 May 17. PMID: 29864018.
5. Iqbal R, Dehghan M, Mente A, Rangarajan S, Wielgosz A, Avezum A, Seron P, AlHabib KF, Lopez-Jaramillo P, Swaminathan S, Mohammadifard N, Zatońska K, Bo H, Varma RP, Rahman O, Yusufali A, Lu Y, Ismail N, Rosengren A, Imeryuz N, Yeates K, Chifamba J, Dans A, Kumar R, Xiaoyun L, Tsolekile L, Khatib R, Diaz R, Teo K, Yusuf S. Associations of unprocessed and processed meat intake with mortality and cardiovascular disease in 21 countries [Prospective Urban Rural Epidemiology (PURE) Study]: a prospective cohort study. Am J Clin Nutr. 2021 Sep 1;114(3):1049-1058. doi: 10.1093/ajcn/nqaa448. PMID: 33787869.
6. Yusuf S, Joseph P, Dans A, Gao P, Teo K, Xavier D, López-Jaramillo P, Yusoff K, Santoso A, Gamra H, Talukder S, Christou C, Girish P, Yeates K, Xavier F, Dagenais G, Rocha C, McCready T, Tyrwhitt J, Bosch J, Pais P; International Polycap Study 3 Investigators. Polypill with or without Aspirin in Persons without Cardiovascular Disease. N Engl J Med. 2021 Jan 21;384(3):216-228. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2028220. Epub 2020 Nov 13. PMID: 33186492; PMCID: PMC7116860.
7. Connolly SJ, Karthikeyan G, Ntsekhe M, Haileamlak A, El Sayed A, El Ghamrawy A, Damasceno A, Avezum A, Dans AML, Gitura B, Hu D, Kamanzi ER, Maklady F, Fana G, Gonzalez-Hermosillo JA, Musuku J, Kazmi K, Zühlke L, Gondwe L, Ma C, Paniagua M, Ogah OS, Molefe-Baikai OJ, Lwabi P, Chillo P, Sharma SK, Cabral TTJ, Tarhuni WM, Benz A, van Eikels M, Krol A, Pattath D, Balasubramanian K, Rangarajan S, Ramasundarahettige C, Mayosi B, Yusuf S; INVICTUS Investigators. Rivaroxaban in Rheumatic Heart Disease-Associated Atrial Fibrillation. N Engl J Med. 2022 Sep 15;387(11):978-988. doi: 10.1056/NEJMoa2209051. Epub 2022 Aug 28. PMID: 36036525.
Some of the most amazing opportunities lurk in plain sight. You’d be pleasantly surprised how things pan out if you allow yourself to be jolted once in a while.
Thirteen years ago, renowned clinician-scientist Dr. Eva Cutiongco-de la Paz engaged a small team of cardiologists at the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital led by Professor Rody Sy to venture into exciting research work on cardiovascular genetics.
Drs. Debbie Ona, Paul Reganit, Donny Magno and Eva Cutiongco-dela Paz (photo courtesy of Ms. Hazel Joyohoy)
I was a newbie cardiology fellow-in-training then and I just happened to quietly walk by while this group was meeting up at the conference room when Dr. Sy suddenly called me out, “Oh, Donny, may ginagawa ka ba?” I respectfully replied, “Sir wala naman po! Ano pong kailangan ninyo?” Dr. Sy flashed his usual smile (like a predator waiting to pounce on his hapless prey) and said “Ah ganun ba? O, maupo ka dito at sumali ka sa grupo.” That’s how I became the youngest and most clueless founding member of the UP PGH Cardiogenomics Study Group, which later on managed to successfully profile the genetic links to heart disease among Filipinos, with several publications in tow. Everything happened so fast that I couldn’t even remember if I had time to process the events, but I quickly found myself feverishly communicating with Dr. Eva (while she was overseas) as we crammed a research proposal that thankfully helped the group clinch big funding for the project. She had an unexplainable “magnet” that made you helplessly gravitate to her insanely great ideas.
The Philippine Cardiogenomics Study group of UP PGH (Photo courtesy of Ms. Hazel Joyohoy)
Everytime I look back at that fond memory, I grin at how our mentors seem to effortlessly win us over but also can’t help but be extremely thankful for being blessed to be in their midst.
Being at the right place, at the right time, with no clue as to why, but diving in without hesitation because you know that the undertaking will be worth your while, not because you know what it means but rather because you believe in the ones who will lead it.
There are people around us who are simply gifted with that ability to make you “jump without looking” just because you trust that they are only “up to great good.” Dr. Eva is one of those people. I and will be forEva thankful.
Penned on the occasion of Women’s History Month (March 2022)
Does the man make the name, or does the name make the man?
Very few people I know in this world can rightfully claim to have truly made the name through the way they have conducted their lives. And it is an undisputed fact that the person we are nominating for the 2016 PHA Most Distinguished Fellow Award exemplifies that kind of man.
Allow me then to belabor this point, for it would be such a great travesty if I did not take few moments of your precious time to define the man.
nel·son ˈnelsən/
a wrestling hold in which one arm is passed under the opponent’s arm from behind and the hand is applied to the neck ( half nelson ), or both arms and hands are applied ( full nelson ); the son of a champion
He may well be the son of a champion, as he, like many of us in Cardiology, considers one of esteemed mentors, Dr. Ramon Abarquez, Jr., as his “father.” True to word, he wrestles with an idea to submission until it develops into something profound.
abelardo ˈnelsən/
Germanic for noble strength
Dr. Abelardo carries out each undertaking with a noble measure of strength, which consists of a healthy balance of good intentions to direct his actions, and justifiable persuasiveness to get the job done.
Although a few words will simply not encompass the true meaning of this extraordinary being, let me offer an alternate and hopefully more “real-world” definition of the man, as I inject a few of my personal insights and experiences of him:
Nobility – “A man is defined not by his appearance, but by what he stands and aspires for.” Dr. Abelardo’s life has been studded with professional milestones, all achieved through sheer hard work and exemplary interpersonal skills. From the Cebu Institute of Medicine, he set his sights on completing both his residency training in Internal Medicine and fellowship in Cardiology at the UP-Philippine General Hospital. Recognizing the growing need by his institution for expertise in noninvasive imaging, he pursued subspecialty training in Cardiology and Echocardiography at the Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Sweden, as well as advanced tutorials in Cardiac Ultrasonography at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, USA. When majority would opt to linger or stay in “greener” pastures, Dr. Nelson pulled through with his promise to bring back his newfound expertise to his homeland and mother institution, UP PGH, later on becoming its Chief of Section and Head of the Noninvasive Cardiac Laboratory. True to form, Dr. Nelson is not only a man of his word, but of his heart.
Eloquence – “It is hard enough knowing what to say, more difficult knowing how to say it, and immensely challenging knowing when to say it.” In his chosen profession of medicine, Dr. Nelson commonly finds himself in the company of esteemed colleagues with amazing levels of intellect. He, however, has managed to stand out because of his gift of eloquence, something that many only dream of. His insane ability to deliver a lecture or speech extemporaneously and sometimes at such short notice, but always in a professorial manner, has made him one of the most sought-after speakers for many academic conferences and scientific symposia. Aside from the conferment of the UP College of Medicine Archie Leano Professorial Chair in Cardiology in 2004 and 2005, and the Dr. Antonio de Leon Professorial Chair in Cardiology in 2014 and 2015, probably one of the greatest testaments to Dr. Abelardo’s eloquence is his selection as the Ramon Abarquez Jr. Professorial Lecturer in 2015.
Legacy – “When you decide to make your mark, choose to make it indelible.” His leadership and executive skills have served him well, taking him to the helm as Chief of the Sections of Cardiology of two institutions – the UP-PGH (2000-2010) and Manila Doctors Hospital (2010 to present). During his term, he steered these sections to greater heights, enabling them not only to have the training programs accredited and re-accredited, but also bringing them to the spotlight through sheer inspiration. Beyond training, he labored tirelessly to work on hospital policies as Assistant Medical Director of the Manila Doctors Hospital. As a founding member of the Philippine Society of Echocardiography, he helped shape the future of his subspecialty and the practice of echocardiography in the country. Actions do speak louder than words, and his work output excellently complements his magniloquence. To me, Dr. Nelson is not just a “Key Opinion Leader” but more importantly a “Key Outcome Leader.”
Sagacity – “Information is at the disposal of everyone. But only a few will be able to truly recognize what, when, and how such information can potentially be life-changing. And that may well be the beginning of wisdom.” One of the key traits that made Dr. Nelson an outstanding student and teacher of medicine is his unquenchable thirst for knowledge, combined with his keen powers of discernment. In terms of the academe, he has worked his way up the ladder to become one of the highest-ranking professors (Professor VII) of the College of Medicine and the UP-PGH. He jumpstarted this journey to the top by choosing his mentors and associates well. He became a research associate of various luminaries such as Prof. Ake Hjalmarson (University of Gothenberg), Prof. Ramon Abarquez, Jr. and Dr. Yolando Sulit (University of the Philippines), as well as an indispensable ally in research collaborations with Dr. Jorge Sison (Philippine Heart Association) and Dr. Rody Sy (Philippine Lipid Society), to name only a few. He had his lion’s share of the driver’s seat in many instances, being the lead proponent or main mover of various research efforts which include local and international trials (MIAMI, PHYTON, NNHeS, SPORTIF, ARISTOTLE, STABILITY, SOLID-TIMI, etc.) and task forces on clinical practice guidelines (hypertension, dyslipidemia).
Optimism – “The optimist is the one who makes the possible probable.” In a world full of negativity and pessimism, Dr. Nelson manages to exude a positive aura that has helped him accomplish many feats throughout his career. When most people would ask “why,” Dr. Nelson would remark, “why not?” He is purposefully perceptive, managing to see the hidden gems in the people he meets along the way. As former chief of the UP PGH Section of Cardiology, he would exercise his fatherly role, highlighting the strengths and downplaying the weaknesses of his consultant colleagues and training fellows. Not a few graduates of the section will attest to the remarkable way he has turned their lives around, defending his belief in their innate goodness and potential, sometimes almost to a fault. As a manager, he has demonstrated his distinctive foresight and trouble-shooting skills, having successfully supervised several fundraising projects to support for the indigent patients of the UP-PGH. He has led the Sagip Buhay Medical Foundation and the Pusong Pinoy Foundation (the charity arms of the UP-PGH Department of Medicine and the Section of Cardiology, respectively) in various capacities, allowing these outfits to generate millions of pesos to serve thousands of patients in need.
Novelty – “Most people follow the standard; some would set it; while others dare to reinvent it.” When most people take the common road, and some opt for the road less-traveled, Dr. Nelson does the unthinkable and creates a new path for himself. He is not satisfied with “what is” but is constantly drawn to “what can be.” I caught an early glimpse of his innovativeness, when we collaborated on a research endeavor on the automation of M-mode measurments in echocardiography, which incidentally garnered the PHA-Servier Most Outstanding Research in Cardiology Award during the 42nd Annual Convention & Scientific Meeting of the Philippine Heart Association. He does not just think “out of the box” but actually recognizes that the box itself can be more that what it appears to be. Most recently, we found ourselves once again working together on the Core Curriculum guidelines for Training of Adult Cardiology Fellows as part of the Task Force commissioned by the Philippine Heart Association.
Nobility. Eloquence. Legacy. Sagacity. Optimism. Novelty. A fellow with such traits must surely be distinguished.
Dr. Abelardo truly embodies the pillars of our Department and Section – service, training, and research. His track record speaks for itself, having won the Distinguished Fellow Award of the Philippine College of Physicians in 1997, the PHA Distinguished Teacher Award in 2002 and the PHA Distinguished Service Award in 2010. For these and the aforementioned reasons, we humbly recommend him for the most prestigious College Award of the Philippine Heart Association.
The Philippine Heart Association’s Distinguished Scientist Awardee for 2015, Dr. Edgardo Timbol is well-known and well-loved for his creativity as a clinician-educator. His 3-decade long (and still ongoing) stint as Associate Professor of the School of Medicine at Angeles University Foundation is a testament to his passion for sharing knowledge. His keen powers of observation allow him to simplify discussions on electrocardiography to a level that would be most appealing to even the novice student in cardiology. His agility with words makes the discourse of medicine seem brilliantly poetic, capturing the interest and imagination of even the most seasoned of his peers in the profession. He has a wonderful penchant for humor and art, which he cleverly uses to embellish his electrocardiographic stories in his four volumes of “Dysrhythmic Tales from the Heart.” For the past 10 years, he has generously contributed his electrifying pearls of ECG wisdom to the official newsletter of the Philippine Heart Association (PHA Newsbriefs), serving as one of its constant columnists.
The passion for study was equally etched in doc Ed’s heart, as much as the passion for teaching, being the product of a former Department of Education Culture and Sports (DECS) teacher as well as DECS Principal. After graduating Magna Cum Laude from the University of the East, and Doctor of Medicine from the University of the Philippines Manila in 1978, he pursued internship at the Philippine General Hospital, residency training at the USAF Regional Medical Center at Clark Airbase in Angeles City, cardiology fellowship at the Philippine Heart Center, then subspecialty fellowship training in Cardiac Pacing and Electrophysiology at Epworth Hospital in Melbourne Australia. His dedication to the search for new truths led him to publish at least 20 papers spanning a variety of topics in internal medicine, majority of which, however dealt with his true love—cardiology and electrophysiology. As a result of his innate brilliance and amazing work ethic, Dr. Timbol was the recipient of an avalanche of awards and recognition, receiving the Dr. Jose Perez Scholarship Award from the University of the Philippines College of Medicine (1974-1978), the Dr Francisco Tangco Young Investigator’s Award from the Philippine Heart Association (1986 and 1987), Asia-Pacific Telectronics Award from the Asia-Pacific Working Group in Cardiac Pacing and Electrophysiology (1987), the Most Outstanding Kapampangan in Medicine from the Provincial Government of Pampanga (1996), the Most Outstansing Magaleno from the Municipal Government of Magalang, Pampanga (2008), the Most Outstanding Alumnus in the field of Medicine from the UP Alumni Association (Pampanga Chapter, 2008), and the Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Award in Clinical Practice from the Philippine Medical Association (2011).
photos courtesy of the AUF Medical Center
Beyond teaching, doc Ed has demonstrated his generosity in service by selflessly lending his time and leadership skills to the academe, the clinicial profession and the medical field at large. He was instrumental in jumpstarting the practice of internal medicine in Central Luzon, serving as member of the Board of Trustees (1991 to present) of the Angeles University Foundation Medical Center (AUFMC). He steered the AUFMC Department of Medicine as its Chair in 1993-1994, and reprised his role in 2004-2006. Despite his flourishing practice in Angeles, Dr. Timbol still managed to share his time with the Philippine Heart Center as a visiting consultant in Adult Cardiology and Electrophysiology since 1998. His exploits as a quintessential internist were easily recognized, and this was highlighted by his stint on the Philippine Specialty Board in Internal Medicine from 2006-2009. Being highly-revered by colleagues not only in Internal Medicine but from various specialties and professions, Dr. Timbol found himself at the pioneering end of various projects and milestones, one of which was the setting up of the Cardiovascular Institute of the Angeles University Foundation Medical Center, which he willingly served as Executive Director from 2010 until 2018.
Doc Ed has inspired countless of students, trainees and colleagues in the healthcare professions. He was instrumental in setting up the Adult Cardiology Fellowship training program at AUF, the first and still the only one north of Manila, receiving constant re-accreditation from the Specialty Board of Adult Cardiology in the country. To date, he has helped inspire and successfully graduate seven cardiologists from the training program, all of whom carry the unmistakable stamp of doc Ed’s influence—a unique blend of compassion and quiet brilliance. Ultimately, his greatness is magnified by his innate humility. Truly camera-shy and quite allergic to stardom, doc Ed exudes a quiet presence that seems to invite priestly-reverence. He would walk across the hospital corridor without demanding the attention befitting his true stature, sharing light banter with students, trainees, and hospital staff. His fatherly aura makes him an automatic “ninongable” or someone who would be an easy choice for a wedding godfather. A doting “lolo” to his ultra-cute grandchildren, a respected role model to his 6 good-looking and well-accomplished children, and a devoted husband to his sweetheart — doc Ed is truly one in a million.
selected photos courtesy of the AUF Medical Center
Very few individuals have been endowed with the unique gift of leaving an indelible imprint in the minds and hearts of the people they encounter. In the field of Philippine medicine and cardiology, one such individual who has the ingredients of becoming a future icon is Dr. John Añonuevo. One common thread that runs through the life rubric of all great and well-loved physicians is the capacity to become a good mentor. In his 3 decades of vast clinical experience and selfless toil in the academe, Dr. Añonuevo has shown the essential qualities that make him a great teacher and mentor.
· John doesn’t settle.Academic steadfastness and excellence have decorated the undergraduate and postgraduate life of Dr. Anonuevo. He was class salutatorian during his elementary years, first honorable mention in high school, and a consistent University Scholar at the country’s state university (UP Diliman, College of Arts and Sciences), finally capping his college stint with a Bachelor of Science Degree from UP Diiman, Magna cum Laude. He was awarded as the Most Outstanding Young Scientist of the Philippines by the ASEAN Congress of Science and Technology in 1989, the Ambassador of Goodwill and Leader of the Philippine ASEAN component for the ASEAN-Japan Friendship program in the same year, and was also recognized by the Philippine Heart Association in 1990 with the Francisco F. Tangco Young Investigator Award.
· John listens emphatically. As current Chief of the Section of Cardiology at UP PGH, Dr. Añonuevo has already adopted a consultative stance in leadership, making sure that each one’s opinion is heard and respected. He will take time out of his intensely hectic clinic routine to do one-on-one sessions with you, whether you are a colleague, trainee or secretary. His leadership style is quite efficient, as he keeps himself abreast of the most crucial issues without unnecessarily micromanaging people. Part and parcel of his management skills is his ability to spot and harness rare talent. Aided with a discerning eye for character, he courageously puts a lot of trust in people, helping him win them over for his worthy endeavors.
·John is ever present. Managing his time and work schedule seems to be a cinch for Dr. Añonuevo, as he successfully appears at almost every important event that requires his invaluable presence, whether in his capacity as Chief of Section of PGH Cardiology, as member of the Academic Committee of the UP College of Medicine or as consultant staff of other highly-esteemed institutions such as the Manila Doctors Hospital, Asian Hospital and St. Lukes Medical Center. Despite this highly rigorous routine, Dr. Añonuevo makes sure that his wife Ethel and son Juan always get prime time.
· John loves to teach. Being a hardworking “WOC” for a long time or Clinical Associate Professor at the UP College of Medicine without compensation, Dr. Añonuevo knows how to pay it forward. His gratitude to his alma mater, the UP College of Medicine, is demonstrated in his tireless efforts to teach and teach and teach. He has always shared his precious time to act as a regular service consultant, enjoying such moments with medical students, residents, fellows, colleagues and patients. One of his most recent accolades came in the form of his selection as the Most Outstanding “Junior” Consultant, being unanimously chosen by the batch of residents-in-training of the Department of Medicine at the Philippine General Hospital. He shares his talent for teaching outside the UP world, having been a lecturer for the Department of Health Circuit Course in Aklan in 1990, an Assistant Clinical Instructor at the State University New York in Brooklyn from 1991 to 1993, and Assistant Clinical Instructor at the University of Buffalo, New York from 1993 to 1997. He willingly shares his time to teach medical students, residents, and fellows at the various hospitals he is affiliated with, being an Active Consultant at St. Luke’s Heart Institute in Taguig City, Active Consultant and Chair of the Department of Medicine of the Asian Hospital and Medical Center in Muntinlupa, and CCU-ICU Chief at the Manila Doctors Hospital. He claims, though, that much of his pride stems from the label—“Junior,” which seems to undermine his emerging gray hairs of wisdom.
·John lets you fall but also picks you up. He may be impressively hands-on when the situation calls for it, but Dr. Añonuevo also has the capacity for guiding “at a distance.” He lets his constituents explore their true potential by giving them roles of great responsibility and by letting them stumble once in a while if only to impart an important life lesson. In the same breath, however, Dr. Añonuevo makes his fatherly presence felt especially to his residents and fellows in training. While medical conferences at the PGH Cardiology office have historically gained notoriety because of the insanely intense level of academic discourse, Dr. Añonuevo has also gained the reputation of being the hands-on medical consultant. He will ask you practical questions that may put you off-guard, but will always be quick to follow-up his own interrogation with the gentle reminder of how such comments are made to be taken in a truly constructive light. He makes a sincere effort to know you at a personal level, and keeps mental note of your strengths and weaknesses in order to uplift you in the long run.
· John keeps you grounded. Achieving success and fame is something that certainly has not prevented Dr. Añonuevo from keeping his two feet on the ground. Despite his innumerable career accomplishments, he stays focused on the tasks at hand, no matter how big or small. Because of his unique charm, Dr. Añonuevo has unwittingly created for himself a huge fan-base that spans people of different ages and job descriptions. A quick Google search will instantly lead you to rave reviews from patients beaming about his excellent clinical skills. Informal chats with colleagues have likewise revealed him to be one of the favorite consultants in the workplace. One medical representative actually mentioned that Dr. Añonuevo is probably the most physically fit and good-looking consultant in the Section, proof of his regular work-outs and healthy lifestyle. Such compliments are testament to his personal ethic and view on health, as he exemplifies the physician who definitely “walks the talk.”
· John leaves a legacy. Borne out of his desire to serve, Dr. Añonuevo continually looks for ways to make things better. His long stint as Training officer of the PGH Section of Cardiology is one concrete example of the unique legacy of excellence that he imparts to his trainees. He wasted no time in doing the same at the administrative level, as he recently took on the reins of being top honcho at the Section. Despite his rigorous schedule, he still managed to accept the recent post as Assistant Chair for Support Services of the Department of Medicine at the Philippine General Hospital. He devoted much time spearheading the fundraising campaigns and advocacy projects of the department intended not only to generate funds for indigent patients but also to boost the morale and ensure the welfare of residents-in-training. He even strutted his wares, willingly walking down the catwalk with several other doctors during the recently concluded benefit fashion, Stride 2016. At present, he is busy re-energizing the alumni of the UP PGH Department of Medicine, leading the charge to create a formal organization, formulate its by-laws and legitimately consolidate the alumni resources towards worthwhile endeavors. His energy at the workplace is highly infectious, sending a strong message of determination across the department while infusing an equal dose of congeniality that easily makes him endearing to many.
So who is John Añonuevo? John, in Hebrew, translates to “the graciousness and mercy of the Lord” while Añonuevo, in Spanish, means “the beginning of a new year.” Whether as a husband, a father, a boss, a mentor, or a friend, his presence speaks of abounding grace with every new encounter.
by Jose Donato A. Magno, MD for the UP PGH Section of Cardiology Nomination for the prestigious College Award of the Philippine Heart Association as Most Outstanding Teacher (April 2017)
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