AN ALUMNUS of the Far Eastern University conducted the first corneal transplant in the Ilocos Region earlier this year.

Dr. Leo Francis Pacquing was one of the experts who led the initiation of the first penetrating keratoplasty.

Pacquing is currently the chair of the Department of Opthalmology at St. Martin de Porres Hospital in Candon City. He is also an ophthalmologist, cataract, and refractive specialist.

He said the operation is a pivotal step forward for the medical community, mirroring the significant impact of the first vitreoretinal surgery they introduced in 2019.

“The operation was a medical milestone and also a symbol of hope and progress for the people of Ilocos Sur and its neighboring provinces,” Dr. Pacquing said.

“Bringing this advanced care eliminates the need for our residents to seek such specialized treatments far from home, thus reducing both the logistical burdens and the financial strain associated with travel,” he added.

Aside from Dr. Pacquing, the team included Dr. Mary Ellaine Diaz (external disease specialist), Dr. Thonnie Rose See-Pacquing (ophthalmic oncologist-pathologist), Dr. Laine Ramirez (attending anesthesiologist), Dr. Laine Ramirez (attending anesthesiologist), Zaida Besting, RN (ophthalmic technician), and Charina Habon, RN (ophthalmic scrub nurse).