ILOILO City – An Ilonggo – a native of Tigbauan town in Iloilo province – topped the 2022 Physician Licensure Exam with a rating of 89 percent.
The 24-year-old Justin Adriel Zent “Jaz” G. Togonon graduated magna cum laude and class valedictorian of the College of Medicine of the University of the Philippines Manila.
Togonon said being the Top 1 is a blessing; he did not even expect to land in the Top 10.
He expressed gratitude to all those who supported his journey to reach his dream of becoming a doctor.
“Thankful gid ko kay Lord kag sa tanan nga nagsuporta sa akon all throughout these years,” said Togonon over DYRI RMN Iloilo.
Togonon finished his elementary at the Children’s Integrated School and high school at the Philippines Science High School – Western Visayas Campus in Iloilo City.
According to the new doctor, he is a loud and proud Ilonggo even if he took his medicine course in Manila.
He said he wants to pursue his desire to be a surgeon and serve his fellow Ilonggos.
Meanwhile, he advised those who want to be a doctor to remember the reasons why they want to be one. He said, first and foremost, one should love medicine and serving people.
“Remember your whys, ngaa nag-start gid kamo sa medicine. Always talk to your family and friends kay sila inyo support system kay budlay-budlay man magtuon para sa board,” he added.
Aside from personal effort, he added, it is also important to offer everything to God and seek His guidance.
Togonon is the eldest among the three siblings. His parents are Engr. Jenifred Togonon and Judge Rose Edith G. Togonon.
Aside from Togonon, Mark Arlo Hernandez Segundo – a graduate of West Visayas State University – College Medicine in La Paz, Iloilo City – also landed in Top 5 spot with a rating of 87.58 percent./PN
