Our Leadership

Unified by Purpose. Anchored in Science. Committed to Care.

Allan A. Belen, MD, MMHoA, FPNA, FPAVIN
President

Dr. Allan A. Belen is a dedicated neurologist and psychiatrist specializing in stroke and neurovascular care, with strong leadership roles in clinical and administrative settings. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas and completed his Residency in Adult Neurology and Psychiatry and Fellowship in Stroke and Neurovascular Ultrasound at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital. Dr. Belen currently serves as Secretary of both the Vascular Neurology Subspecialty Board of the Philippine Neurological Association and the Committee on Certifications of the Stroke Society of the Philippines. He also leads healthcare operations as the Medical Director of Maharlika Specialists Hospital and Medical Center. In San Pablo City, he heads the Neurocritical Care and Acute Stroke Unit at Community General Hospital, providing expert care to stroke patients. His work reflects a commitment to advancing stroke care both locally and nationally.

Marc Conrad C. Molina, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Vice-President

Dr. Marc Conrad C. Molina is a dedicated neurologist and psychiatrist specializing in stroke and neurovascular care. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Far Eastern University – Nicanor Reyes Medical Foundation and completed his residency in Adult Neurology and Psychiatry at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital. He further specialized in Stroke and Neurovascular Ultrasound through a fellowship at UST Hospital and the University of California, Los Angeles. Dr. Molina serves as Assistant Professor at New Era University College of Medicine, where he contributes to the training of future physicians. He is a consultant in Neurology and Psychiatry at Cardinal Santos Medical Center and New Era General Hospital. Known for his expertise and compassionate approach, Dr. Molina is deeply committed to advancing stroke care through clinical excellence, education, and the use of advanced neuroimaging and ultrasound techniques to improve outcomes for patients with cerebrovascular disease.

Kathreen Jane A. Lara, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Secretary

Dr. Kathreen Jane A. Lara is a board-certified neurologist and stroke specialist based in Tuguegarao City, Philippines. She graduated cum laude in Psychology from the University of the Philippines and earned her Doctor of Medicine from Cagayan State University. She completed her residency in Neurology and fellowship in Stroke and Vascular Ultrasound at Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center. Currently a Medical Specialist III at Cagayan Valley Medical Center, Dr. Lara is also affiliated with several hospitals in the region. She holds leadership roles in the Stroke Society of the Philippines and contributes actively to stroke education, research, and the development of clinical practice guidelines. A faculty member at two medical schools, she has authored and presented multiple research papers and case reports both locally and internationally. Dr. Lara is a fellow of the Philippine Neurological Association and a member of various professional societies, dedicated to advancing stroke care in the country.

Muktader A. Kalbi, MD, MPH, FPNA, FPAVIN
Treasurer

Dr. Muktader A. Kalbi is a board-certified vascular neurologist known for his expertise in neurology and public health. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Ateneo de Zamboanga University (ADZU), where he also graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Biology and obtained a Master in Public Health. He completed his fellowship in Stroke and Neurovascular Ultrasound at the University of Santo Tomas Hospital and received advanced training through a scholarship at the National University Hospital in Singapore. Dr. Kalbi has contributed significantly to research as a sub-investigator in multiple clinical trials and has published in reputable journals. He has held academic positions at ADZU and leadership roles in various medical institutions. His commitment to healthcare, research, and education has earned him multiple recognitions. With a strong local and international background, Dr. Kalbi continues to play a key role in advancing stroke care and neurology in the Philippines.

Jennifer Justice F. Manzano, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Auditor

Dr. Jennifer Justice F. Manzano is a distinguished neurologist specializing in stroke care. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila and completed her Adult Neurology Residency at the University of the Philippines – Philippine General Hospital. She further honed her expertise through a Clinical and Research Fellowship in Stroke Neurology at the National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital. Dr. Manzano currently serves as Program Director of the Asian Brain Institute at Asian Hospital and Medical Center and leads the Neurology Subspecialty at Medical Center Manila. She is also a consultant at Perpetual Help Medical Center Las Piñas. An active member of the Philippine Neurological Association and its Stroke Council, she is the current head of the Stroke Society of the Philippines – South Luzon chapter. Her leadership and clinical excellence underscore her vital role in improving stroke care and neurological services in the country.

Raquel M. Alvarez, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Raquel M. Alvarez is a board-certified adult neurologist with a strong focus on stroke care and critical neurologic conditions. She completed her Doctor of Medicine at the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, followed by internship at UST Hospital. She underwent residency training in Adult Neurology at Makati Medical Center, where she now serves as Head of Stroke Services and the Neurological Intensive Care Unit. Dr. Alvarez is a consultant neurologist at both Makati Medical Center and San Juan de Dios Hospital. With a passion for acute neurologic care, she plays a vital role in enhancing stroke protocols and intensive neurocritical services. Her dedication to patient-centered care, combined with her leadership in hospital-based stroke management, underscores her commitment to improving neurologic outcomes and elevating standards of stroke care in the Philippines.

Ma. Leticia Araullo-de Jesus, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Ma. Leticia Araullo-de Jesus is a respected neurologist specializing in stroke care and neurointensive medicine. She earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and completed her Residency in Neurology and Psychiatry at UST Hospital. She further specialized with a Fellowship in Stroke and Neurovascular Ultrasound at the same institution. In 2006, she expanded her expertise as a Visiting Research Associate in Neurointensive Care at the University of Chicago Hospitals. A Fellow of the Philippine Neurological Association, Dr. Araullo-de Jesus has held key leadership roles, including Past President of the Stroke Society of the Philippines – Pampanga Chapter (2009–2013) and Head of the Philippine Neurological Association Central Luzon Chapter (2018–2023). Since 2023, she has led the Acute Stroke Unit at Pampanga Medical Specialist Hospital, reflecting her strong commitment to specialized stroke intervention. Her career exemplifies excellence in clinical care, research, and regional stroke advocacy in the Philippines.

Romulo U. Esagunde, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Romulo U. Esagunde is a distinguished neurologist and leader in Philippine neurology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas and completed his Neurology Residency at Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, followed by a Fellowship in Stroke and Vascular Neurology at Singapore General Hospital. He also holds a Master’s in Health Profession Education from UP Manila. Dr. Esagunde is currently Chairman and Assistant Professor at the Department of Neurosciences, De La Salle Medical & Health Sciences Institute, and concurrently serves as Chairman and Medical Specialist III at the Department of Neurology, Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center. He is also the Training Officer for the Vascular Neurology Fellowship Program. A Fellow and former President of both the Philippine Neurological Association and the Stroke Society of the Philippines, he has held numerous leadership roles, including chairing the PNA’s Adult Neurology Accreditation Team and serving on multiple PNA committees.

Maria Socorro F. Sarfati, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Maria Socorro F. Sarfati is a distinguished neurologist in the Philippines known for her outstanding academic and clinical contributions to stroke care. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with a BS in Biology and earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of the Philippines Baguio. She completed her neurology training at the University of the Philippines-Philippine General Hospital, serving as Chief Resident. Dr. Florendo-Sarfati is a certified vascular neurologist and has specialized training in headache disorders from international institutions in Tokyo and Taipei. As the immediate Past President of the Stroke Society of the Philippines (SSP) and former President of its Baguio Benguet Chapter, she has played a key role in improving stroke management nationally and locally. She led the creation of the Stroke Unit at Baguio General Hospital and currently convenes the SSP Stroke Nurse Master Class. Her leadership extends to the SSP Board, Philippine Neurological Association, and Asian Stroke Advisory Panel, underscoring her commitment to advancing stroke care in the country.

Dan Neftalie A. Juangco, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Dan Neftalie A. Juangco is a highly skilled neurologist with subspecialty training in interventional neurology and stroke. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from St. Luke’s College of Medicine and completed his Adult Neurology Residency at St. Luke’s Medical Center Institute for Neurosciences. He further specialized through a Fellowship in Interventional Neurology and Stroke at Pacific Medical College and Hospital, gaining advanced expertise in neurovascular interventions. Dr. Juangco currently serves as Consultant in Neurology, Stroke, and Interventional Neurology at several major hospitals, including St. Luke’s Medical Center–Quezon City, Capitol Medical Center, East Avenue Medical Center, and Fe del Mundo Medical Center. He leads the Stroke Service at East Avenue Medical Center and serves as Assistant Training Officer for Adult Neurology at St. Luke’s Medical Center. A Fellow of the Philippine Neurological Association and in Interventional Neurology and Stroke, Dr. Juangco plays a key role in advancing acute stroke care and medical education in the country.

Belinda Lioba Mesina-Nepomuceno, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Belinda Lioba L. Mesina-Nepomuceno is a board-certified neurologist with subspecialty training in stroke and cerebrovascular diseases. She completed her Doctor of Medicine at the University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center (UERMMMC), where she now serves as Assistant Professor and Active Staff in Clinical Neurosciences. She underwent residency in Adult Neurology at UERMMMC and completed her stroke fellowship at St. Luke’s Medical Center, where she is currently the Training Officer of the Stroke Fellowship Program. Dr. Mesina-Nepomuceno is also affiliated with St. Luke’s Medical Center, Capitol Medical Center, and Rizal Medical Center. She holds leadership roles in the Philippine Neurological Association and Stroke Society of the Philippines and has contributed to multiple research initiatives in stroke and neuromuscular disorders. A respected educator and clinician, she is recognized for her dedication to stroke care, mentorship, and academic excellence in Philippine neurology.

Niño Emerico S. Porciuncula, MD, FPNA, DPBP, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Niño Emerico S. Porciuncula is a distinguished neurologist and psychiatrist with subspecialty training in Stroke and Vascular Neurology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine degree from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Medicine and Surgery in 2004 and completed his residency in Neurology and Psychiatry at UST Hospital in 2009. He further pursued fellowship training in Stroke and Vascular Neurology at the same institution in 2010. Dr. Porciuncula currently serves as ICU and ER Head at Allied Care Experts Medical Center in Baliwag City, Bulacan. He is also affiliated with several hospitals in the region, including Castro Maternity and General Hospital, Rugay General Hospital, Marcelo Hospital, and Sto. Niño Hospital in Bustos, Bulacan. With a strong commitment to acute neurologic care and stroke management, he is recognized for his clinical leadership and dedication to improving neurologic services in provincial and community-based settings.

Peter Allan A. Quitasol, MD, FPNA, FPAVIN
Member, Board of Trustees

Dr. Peter Allan A. Quitasol is a dedicated adult neurologist with specialized training in stroke care. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from Saint Louis University School of Medicine and completed his residency in Adult Neurology at Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center. He further advanced his expertise through a Stroke Fellowship at Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center. Dr. Quitasol currently serves as Head of the Section of Neurology at both Saint Louis University Hospital of the Sacred Heart Medical Center and Pines City Doctors' Hospital. He also leads Stroke Services at Notre Dame de Chartres Hospital. As a practicing neurologist, he is a consultant at multiple institutions including Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center. Additionally, he plays a vital role in academic medicine as a lecturer at Saint Louis University and Pines City Colleges, and as Assistant Training Officer in Adult Neurology at Baguio General Hospital.

Jose C. Navarro, MD, MSc, FPNA, FPSCCM, FPAVIN
Member, Advisory Council

Dr. Jose C. Navarro is a distinguished neurologist with expertise in neuromuscular and cerebrovascular disorders, and a strong background in research and education. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas and a Master of Science in Clinical Epidemiology from the University of the Philippines–Manila. He completed his Neurology residency at UST Hospital, followed by fellowships in Peripheral Neuropathy, Clinical Electromyography, and Neuromuscular Diseases at Kyushu University, Japan, and an observership in Stroke and Neurosonology at the University of Texas. Dr. Navarro is Chairman Emeritus of the Department of Neurology at Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center, where he also leads the Stroke Service. He previously led clinical research at St. Luke’s Medical Center and directed stroke units at the Philippine Heart Center. A professor at UST and former Editor-in-Chief of the Philippine Journal of Neurology, he is a fellow of the Philippine Neurological Society and Critical Care Medicine, and an honorary fellow of the Thai Stroke Society.

Johnny K. Lokin, MD, FPNA, FPSCCM, FPAVIN
Member, Advisory Council

Dr. Johnny K. Lokin is a distinguished neurologist with extensive expertise in neuroradiology, demyelinating diseases, and critical care neurology. He earned his Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) and completed his Neurology and Psychiatry Residency at UST Hospital. He underwent specialized training in Japan, completing clinical and research fellowships in neuroradiology, demyelinating diseases, and Alzheimer’s disease, and further trained in critical care neurology and neurovascular ultrasound in New York. Dr. Lokin currently serves as Assistant Professor at UST’s College of Rehabilitation Sciences and chairs the Department of Neuroscience & Behavioral Medicine at UST Hospital. He is affiliated with several leading hospitals, including Cardinal Santos Medical Center and Chinese General Hospital. A past president of both the Philippine Neurological Association and the Philippine College of Psychopharmacology, he also chaired the Adult Neurology Specialty Board-PNA. He leads the PNA Neuro-Critical Care Group and holds honorary and board positions in multiple regional neurological societies.