Read VP Sara Duterte’s Message for Doc Willie Ong Here
DOC WILLIE ONG – Vice President Sara Duterte sent a letter of support to Doc Willie Ong.
Vice President Sara Duterte extended her well-wishes to health advocate and cardiologist Willie Ong, hoping for his “speedy and complete recovery” after he revealed he had been diagnosed with sarcoma in his abdomen.
Ong, who ran for vice president in the 2022 elections, shared the news of his illness recently on social media.
“I extend my heartfelt support and wish you a speedy and complete recovery. Your courage and optimism deeply moved us all as you shared your diagnosis and ongoing battle with sarcoma. Your strength and positive outlook in such adversity are genuinely inspiring,” Duterte wrote in a letter, which Ong posted on Facebook.
She also mentioned a personal note: “My mother, Elizabeth, watches you on YouTube and prays for mercy and healing.”
Doc Willie Ong said that the sarcoma might have been triggered by the stress of harsh criticism during the politically charged election campaign. In the 2022 elections, Ong was urged to skip campaign events in Mindanao, where Duterte’s support base was strong, with some voters leaning toward supporting either Isko Moreno or Duterte. While campaigning, Ong suffered a fractured arm after an accident on a moving float.
Ong had been the running mate of former Manila mayor Isko Moreno and previously served as a consultant under former health secretary Enrique Ona.
Sarcoma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the bones and connective tissues.
Despite the challenges and limited treatment options for sarcoma, Ong remains optimistic about his recovery.