Google “Melecia A.Velmonte” and you will find a long search list on her: numerous research papers, medical missions, conferences attended, lectures done, organizational memberships, etc. And Dr. Velmonte’s achievements as well as contributions to the medical profession are actually even more than the sum of your search list.
An infectious diseases specialist, Dr. Velmonte finished high school valedictorian in San Dionisio, Iloilo and studied medicine at the University of the Philippines in Manila. She has been staffed in various hospitals, both private and public, but has always managed to find the time to treat patients from the marginalized sectors for free in different provinces all over the country.
Dr. Velmonte spends her free time in Barangay Maybangkal, Morong, Rizal still treating patients and organizing medical/dental missions with the help of local barangay healthworkers. She also tends to her farm and manages a conference venue called Silungan. (Dr. Velmonte’s Silungan is a regular venue for children’s camps as well as trainings, seminars and workshops for medical practitioners, government institutions, academic groups and non-government organizations.)
I am most touched by Dr. Velmonte’s deep involvement in the lives of children affected and infected by HIV. Dr. Velmonte has already worked with generations of these children thru the Extended Care Program at San Lazaro Hospital and the Precious Jewels in Quezon City.
But best of all, Dr. Velmonte’s standards for treating all her patients as well as her concern for their welfare are equally high, regardless of stature or economic background.
Thus, we are ever so grateful that she has chosen to return to the barrio and treat patients there,where she is most needed.
(For inquiries on Silungan, please call Bob @ 09178278497.)
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