The province of Ilocos Norte on Monday cited a physician from the province for his outstanding contribution to wellness and healing, notably during the height of the Covid-19 crisis.

Dr. Norman Panfilo Rabago, 52, a resident of Barangay 23 San Matias here, received a resolution of commendation from members of the provincial board. He is currently the chief executive director of the Karmelli Clinic and Hospital Corporation in this city.

A two-page resolution signed and approved by acting Governor Cecilia Araneta Marcos said Rabago was cited last year as The Outstanding Filipino Physician (TOFP) by the Philippine Medical Association (and Junior Chamber International (JCI) Senate Philippines.

TOFP is an annual search launched in 2007 by the JCI Senate Philippines, in collaboration with PMA, to honor the exemplary service of medical doctors in the Philippines.

The project was conceptualized to help mitigate “brain drain” in the medical field and help inspire young doctors to practice in the country.

“I did not expect the award and it came really as a surprise,” said Rabago as he thanked the award-giving body.

At the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, Rabago was among those on the frontlines who helped the province strategize its fight against the viral disease. Prior to that, he established Karmelli Clinic and Hospital Corporation along with his wife Dr. Lillibeth P. Rabago.

Under his leadership, Karmelli was awarded one of the best hospitals in the country by the Philippine Hospital Association and the Department of Health as one of the 30 Hospital Star Awards 2018 recipients.

Believing in the power of education and charity, Rabago likewise sponsored scholarships.

Apart from being a specialist in internal medicine and hypertension, he also shares his passion for food and music with his recently opened Li’lls Cafe and restaurant, offering comfort foods with private KTV rooms. (PNA)