As soon as Fonsy passed his medical board exams, he chose to pack his bags to be a primary care physician in one of the poorest communities in Northern Samar. When he moved there, he was welcomed by just 2 doctors, an ageing support staff, incomplete diagnostic equipment and a pharmacy of limited medicines. Being there meant not just supplementing manpower, but also working with stakeholders to change services and processes to make the healthcare system sustainable. Over time, Fonsy and his team made gains that minimized out of pocket for patients, and translated to saving more lives - while inspiring a younger generation in their community to want to get into the medical field. His mission eventually landed him a slot as one of the Obama Foundation Leaders in Asia Pacific. Today, Fonsy continues his advocacy after assuming a bigger role as Head of the Department of Health’s Program Implementation and Outreach Division.

We discuss:

Social: