Fe del Mundo

Filipino pediatrician and National Scientist

Fe del Mundo

Fe Villanueva del Mundo (November 27, 1911 – August 6, 2011) was a pioneering Filipino pediatrician whose career spanned over eight decades. She was the first woman admitted to Harvard Medical School, and she founded the first pediatric hospital in the Philippines. Her contributions to medicine and public health have left a lasting impact on the field of pediatrics in the Philippines and beyond.

Early Life and Education

Fe del Mundo was born in Intramuros, Manila, Philippines, to a prominent family. Her father, Bernardo del Mundo, was a lawyer and a member of the Philippine Assembly. Inspired by the death of her younger sister, who died from appendicitis at the age of 11, del Mundo decided to pursue a career in medicine.

Del Mundo graduated from the University of the Philippines in 1933 with a degree in medicine. She then went on to become the first woman to be admitted to Harvard Medical School in 1936, where she specialized in pediatrics.

Career

After completing her studies in the United States, del Mundo returned to the Philippines in 1941. She joined the International Red Cross and worked in various hospitals during World War II, including an internment camp for foreign nationals.

In 1957, del Mundo founded the Children's Medical Center Philippines, the first pediatric hospital in the Philippines. The hospital was dedicated to providing medical care to children, regardless of their family's ability to pay.

Children's Medical Center Philippines

Del Mundo was known for her innovative approaches to healthcare, including the development of an incubator made from bamboo, which was used in rural areas where electricity was not available.

Contributions to Pediatrics

Del Mundo's work in pediatrics extended beyond clinical practice. She was involved in research and published numerous papers on infectious diseases, nutrition, and public health. Her work helped to reduce child mortality rates in the Philippines and improve the overall health of children.

Awards and Recognition

Del Mundo received numerous awards throughout her career, including the Ramon Magsaysay Award for Public Service in 1977. In 1980, she was declared a National Scientist of the Philippines, the highest honor given to Filipino scientists.

National Scientist Dr. Fe Del Mundo

Legacy

Fe del Mundo's legacy continues to inspire future generations of medical professionals. Her dedication to improving child health and her pioneering spirit have made her a role model for many.

Related Pages

• Pediatrics
• Harvard Medical School
• University of the Philippines Manila
• Ramon Magsaysay Award