Eminent Fil-Am physician dies

DISTINGUISHED Filipino American physician Dr. Jose Galang Vijungco died at 82, in Naples, Florida, on February 23, his family told The Manila Times on Wednesday.

Vijungco, recognized as a pillar of the Filipino medical community in the US, founded the University of Santo Tomas Medical Alumni Association (USTMAA) of America Foundation.

He was behind many initiatives beneficial to the Filipino community in America.

He migrated to Illinois in 1968, along with his wife, Dr. Herminia David-Vijungco, to serve as an intern at Christ Community Hospital.

He completed his residency at Rush-Presbyterian Hospital and St. Louis University Hospital.

Vijungco practiced as a radiologist for decades at the South County Radiology of St. Anthony's Hospital in St. Louis, Missouri.

He spent his final years as an associate professor of Radiology at the St. Louis University Medical School, where he was cited as «Most Outstanding Teacher of the Year» twice in three years.

Vijungco also served as president of the Philippine Medical Association of St. Louis, Association of Philippine Physicians of America and Amnesty International.

He was for a while involved in politics as the leader of the Movement for Free Philippines.

Upon retirement, Vijungco focused on mango farming.

He was survived by his wife, Herminia, children Jonas Vijungco, Merceditas «Jing» Redfern, Michelle Vijungco, Dr. Joseph Vijungco, and Jeffrey Vijungco, as well as grandchildren Justin, Miles, Savannah, Luke, Jaden, Jordan, Jaya, Stella and Scotty.

A memorial mass for Vijungco will be held at St. Agnes Church in Naples, Florida, on Saturday, April 13.

Instead of flowers, his family requested that memorial donations be made to the USTMAA.