From beginnings to distinctions: A journey in Movement Disorders
Every path starts with a single step. Reflecting on my journey in the field of Movement Disorders, I am reminded of the passion and perseverance that have guided me through decades of dedication. This commitment was recognized in 2024, with the honor of receiving the Presidential Distinguished Service Award from the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) in Philadelphia.
The Start of a Vision
My foundation in medicine began at the Pontifical and Royal University of Santo Tomas (UST), where I pursued a Bachelor of Science degree, followed by my Doctor of Medicine at the Faculty of Medicine and Surgery. As Chief Resident in Neurology and Psychiatry at the University Hospital (USTH), I shaped my understanding of neurological care.
A defining chapter unfolded with a PhD in Neuroscience from Kagoshima University Graduate School of Medicine in Japan, made possible by scholarships from the Japanese Ministry of Education and the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science. Alongside, I undertook rigorous subspecialty training in Neuromuscular and Movement Disorders at Kagoshima University Hospital, complemented by further clinical programs at the Mayo Clinic's Electromyography Laboratory and Columbia University’s Dystonia Clinic.
These experiences imbued me with the drive to contribute meaningfully to the field. As a mentor once advised, “Excellence is a habit, not an act.” This belief inspired my return to the Philippines, where I aimed to advance movement disorders care and education.
At UST-FMS and USTH, I dedicated myself to teaching and clinical practice, eventually serving as Hospital Chair of the Neurology and Psychiatry Department. Beyond clinical roles, I embraced academic leadership as a Full Professor, researcher, and Editor-in-Chief of the JMUST journal, helping shape the next generation of specialists.
The Movement Disorders Society of the Philippines: Turning Vision into Reality
In 1999, with a clear goal of fostering collaboration and advancing the field of neurology, I co-founded the Movement Disorders Society of the Philippines (MDSP). This organization was more than a professional network—it was a platform to elevate the standing of Philippine neurology on the global stage. A major milestone came in 2009, when MDSP was formally recognized as an affiliate of the International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society (MDS) during my term as President (2009–2012).
Through MDSP, I dedicated myself to positioning Filipino specialists as active contributors to the international neurology community. MDSP members began serving as faculty at MDS regional and annual meetings, and some assumed leadership roles within the organization. My journey culminated in chairing the MDS Asian and Oceanian Section (AOS) from 2021 to 2023.
One of our proudest achievements was hosting the 2016 Asian and Oceanian Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Congress (AOPMC) in collaboration with the Asian and Pacific Parkinson’s Disease Association (APPA). With over 800 participants and an esteemed faculty, the convention was a testament to the Philippines’ growing prominence in the field.
Mentorship was a cornerstone of our mission. MDSP actively supported members in pursuing advanced training at institutions in the United States, Canada, Germany, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia. These efforts have cultivated a vibrant, global network of movement disorder specialists with roots in the Philippines.
This October 2024, MDSP celebrated its 25th anniversary with an event that brought together international and local experts, including the MDS President. The celebration was a tribute to the mentors and members whose dedication brought the vision of MDSP to life.
Building a Legacy Through Research and Leadership
Balancing clinical practice, research, and leadership, I have contributed over 200 peer-reviewed publications, bridging scientific inquiry and real-world application. These efforts have been recognized with honors such as the Dangal ng UST Award in Research, the UST-FMS Sesquicentennial Award in Research and Publications, and multiple Rector’s Research Gold Publication Awards. In 2022, I received the Philippine Neurological Association’s Gold Award in Research and Education, alongside Honorary Membership in the Japanese Society of Neurology.
My leadership roles, spanning the Philippine Neurological Association, the Asian and Oceanian Myology Center, and the MDS Asian and Oceanian Section, were driven by a commitment to service. For instance, under the MDS-AOS Ad Hoc Committee for Underserved Areas, we addressed critical gaps in education, clinical skills, and access to medication across the region.
“Leadership,” I often remind my colleagues, “is about serving others, not seeking titles.”
A Message to the Next Generation
Standing on the stage in Philadelphia to receive the MDS Presidential Distinguished Service Award, I was overwhelmed with gratitude—not for personal accolades, but for the opportunity to be part of a community united by its dedication to improving lives.
To the next generation of specialists, I offer this:
|
|
|
As I look back, I am reminded of the Filipino phrase, “Ang hindi lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan.” My journey has been enriched by my roots, my mentors, my colleagues, and the young specialists who continue the work.
The road ahead is long, but as a united community, we will move forward together—one step at a time.