Every time I hear a story about a doctor leaving the country for greener pastures abroad, I could not help but feel betrayed and mortified. For sure, they have their valid reasons for leaving but I just could not help wonder if they ever thought of their poorest countrymen who really need them than those rich countries that pay really good bucks. Yes, they have their own family’s future to think of and the green bucks are better abroad than the Philippines. But do they ever think about their moral obligation to their own country wherein some places are considered lucky if they have their one doctor for the entire community every 3 months? Some actually, have not seen doctors in years!!

So, let us give recognition to those doctors who have remained, dedicated their lives and career to help their own countrymen. The Ten Outstanding Filipino Physicians award was formally launched by the JCI Senate Philippines and the Department of Health last April 9. Submission of nominations shall end on August 17, 2008. Email: tofp_jcisp@yahoo.com or check out their blog, http://tofpjcisp2007.multiply.com