Ateneo, PHAP organize tribute to health reform champion Dr Quasi Romualdez

The Ateneo School of Government through the Ateneo Policy Center, in partnership with the Pharmaceutical and Healthcare Association of the Philippines (PHAP), hosted a tribute and memorial lecture for the 10th death anniversary of Dr Alberto “Quasi” Romualdez, Jr. last 18 October 2023, at 4:00 - 6:00 PM at Ateneo de Manila University, Quezon City. The event was sponsored by PHAP and co-convened by Dr Bryan Albert Lim, a mentee of Dr Quasi.

Dr Quasi devoted most of his life to championing the Health Sector Reform Agenda. Serving as the Secretary of Health from 1998 to 2001, Dr Quasi had vigorously pushed for tobacco control and reproductive rights. He was also considered the pioneer of universal healthcare reform, prioritizing improved access and equity in health for the marginalized and underserved.

In her opening remarks, Dr Junice Demeterio-Melgar, Executive Director of the Likhaan Center for Women’s Health, shared her story of working with Dr Quasi in ardently advancing the Reproductive Health Act amid strong resistance from opposing groups. 

Atty Vida Romualdez-Aquino, Dr. Quasi’s daughter, expressed her appreciation towards those who have come to honor the life of her father, even ten years after his demise. The event was also attended by his wife, Mrs Peachy Herbosa-Romualdez.

Department of Health Secretary Teodoro Herbosa also delivered a special message, sharing how Dr Quasi’s life and work solidified his commitment to effectively implement the Universal Health Care (UHC) Act.

Many of Dr Quasi’s friends and colleagues from the Department of Health (DOH), World Health Organization, University of the Philippines, UHC Study Group, and Reproductive Health groups also shared how he has touched their lives. 

Among them were former Dean of the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health Dr Manuel Dayrit, National Scientist Dr Ernesto Domingo, former PhilHealth President Dr Eduardo Banzon, and Forum for Family Planning and Development President Mr Benjamin de Leon. Zuellig Family Foundation President Ernesto Garilao, former Institute of Philippine Culture Director Dr Mary Racelis, former Health Undersecretary Dr Mario Villaverde, and former DOH Secretary Dr Jaime Galvez-Tan also offered their heartfelt tributes to Dr Quasi.

The event concluded with a lecture by DOH Director Johanna Banzon on the current state of the Philippine health workforce in the time of universal health care, followed by a reaction by Ms Christine Dugay from Ipsos who underscored the need for multi-stakeholder collaboration in addressing the nursing crunch.

As part of our commitment to forming leaders and leading reforms, the Ateneo School of Government recognizes the importance of remembering and honoring the contributions of government officials such as Dr Quasi, an Atenean alumnus who has made significant strides in enacting positive change in the health sector.