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Alfredo R. A. Bengzon, who introduced the country’s first generic drug law, was born on Oct. 20, 1935. After earning his medical degree in 1961 from the University of the Philippines, Bengzon pursued his specialized training abroad. He established a practice in neurology and became a pioneer in medical services management when he returned to the country in 1967. He became health secretary from 1986 to 1992, during which he gave Filipinos an alternative to costly brand-name medicines. In 1991, he was awarded the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Government Service.—Schatzi Quodala, Inquirer Research