Peers cite Inquirer columnist

The Philippine Heart Association-Philippine College of Cardiology (PHA-PCC) will confer on Philippine Daily Inquirer health columnist Dr. Rafael Castillo the Distinguished Fellow Award during the association’s 42nd annual convention on Wednesday at the Crowne Plaza Hotel.

The award is the highest college award given to association members.

Castillo was cited for his achievements as a heart specialist and his pioneering efforts in medical journalism. He edits several health publications and has been writing the Medical Files column in the Inquirer’s Health and Science section for the past 11 years. He served as PHA-PCC president in 1993-94 and chair of the Specialty Board of Adult Cardiology in 2002.

The other awardees are Dr. Edgardo Ortiz (Distinguished Service), Dr. Wilson Tan de Guzman (Distinguished Teacher), Dr. Marcelos Francis Ramirez (Distinguished Scientist/Researcher) and Dr. Generoso Matiga (Distinguished Loyalty).

Early this year, the University of Santo Tomas Medical Alumni Association gave Castillo the Thomas Award for Leadership in Public Health and Health-Related Concerns for his contributions to public health education with his column and publications.

This year, the PHA-PCC is also citing two renowned local cardiologists who have been recognized internationally for their accomplishments—Dr. Rody Sy (Golden Heart Award) and Dr. Avelino Aventura (Lifetime Award).