Philippine Heart Association Cebu Chapter Earns Top Honors
CEBU CITY – Four cardiologists from the Philippine Heart Association Cebu chapter received distinguished recognition at the 55th PHA Convention and Scientific Meeting held on May 27 at the EDSA Shangri-La in Mandaluyong City. The event celebrated outstanding contributions in cardiovascular health, education, and advocacy.
Among the awardees, Dr. Alex Junia, current president of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations Federation of Cardiology (AFC), was honored with the 2025 Golden Heart Award. He became the 14th recipient of this prestigious accolade, which is reserved for former PHA presidents who have made significant impacts on heart health.
Transforming Heart Care Through Leadership and Advocacy
Dr. Junia is widely recognized as a visionary leader who has shaped both the local and ASEAN cardiovascular landscape. His dedication to advancing heart care has led to important initiatives, including the CPR-ReadyPH campaign. This program was instrumental in the passage of Republic Act 10871, mandating age-appropriate hands-only CPR training for K-12 students nationwide. Additionally, Junia spearheaded the nationwide Mass CPR Training and the CPR on Wheels and Wings (CWW) project launched in 2016, enhancing emergency response capabilities throughout the Philippines.
Additional Honors Recognize Excellence in Cardiovascular Education and Service
Three other prominent cardiologists from the Cebu chapter also received awards for their exceptional contributions. Dr. Lerma Noval was awarded the Distinguished Fellow Award 2025 for her work in cardiovascular research and education. Dr. Wilfredo Ypil earned the Distinguished Teacher Award 2025 for his dedication to medical education and mentorship of cardiology trainees. Meanwhile, Dr. Maria Rosan Trani received the Distinguished Loyalty Award for her pioneering efforts in establishing the only cardiac rehabilitation clinical and research training program outside Metro Manila.
These three doctors are also noted for their pro bono services, with Noval leading the development of the Chong Hua Hospital Heart Institute and Cardiology Fellowship Training program. Ypil has been a driving force in promoting holistic development among medical students and cardiology trainees, while Trani’s groundbreaking work continues to elevate cardiac rehabilitation in the region.
The success of these awardees highlights the Philippine Heart Association Cebu chapter’s commitment to advancing cardiovascular health through education, research, and community service.
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