[Preview] Althea Aquino: A Journey of Resilience

Preface. 4

Chapter 1 A Star in Surigao.. 6

Chapter 2 A Sudden Darkness. 21

Chapter 3 A New Life in Chains. 37

Chapter 4 Escape to Freedom.. 55

Chapter 5 Academic Ascent. 73

Chapter 6 Reconnecting Roots. 93

Chapter 7 Triumph in Medicine. 112

Chapter 8 Healing and Homecoming. 127

Chapter 9 Legacy in Medicine. 144

Chapter 10 Full Circle. 163

Conclusion 179

In the pages that follow, you will journey through the remarkable life of Althea Aquino, a woman whose story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of unwavering determination. Born into a modest fishing family on the picturesque shores of Surigao, Philippines, Althea's early life was steeped in the rich culture, surrounded by the loving bonds of family and community. However, the idyllic scenes of her childhood were abruptly disrupted, leading her down a path fraught with unimaginable challenges.

This book is more than just a biography. It is an exploration of how adversity can forge character, and how a single, determined individual can influence the world of medicine and beyond. It explores the darkest moments of human experience, from Althea’s harrowing abduction and subsequent years of captivity to her extraordinary ascent to the pinnacle of the medical profession.

Althea's journey is not merely one of personal success but an inspiring story of how compassion, integrity, and tenacity can create a legacy that transcends borders and generations. Through her groundbreaking medical innovations, her commitment to mentoring young professionals, and her efforts to improve healthcare access and education, Althea has impacted countless lives.

The narrative that unfolds is based on extensive research, interviews with Althea herself, her colleagues, family members, and the many mentees who have been touched by her generosity and mentorship. It also draws from her personal diaries, providing an intimate glimpse into her thoughts and emotions as she navigated each phase of her life.

As you read about Althea’s achievements and the wisdom she has garnered through her experiences, it is my hope that you will find inspiration in her resilience and insights. This book is dedicated to anyone facing their own adversities, to those in the medical field striving to make a difference, and to all who seek to leave a positive imprint on the world, just as Althea has.

Thank you for choosing to explore this story. May it ignite a spark of perseverance, empathy, and ambition as you reflect on your own journey and the impact you wish to have on the world around you.

Surigao greets the morning with a symphony of sights and sounds that paint a vivid tableau of life by the sea. As dawn breaks, the horizon shifts from a deep navy to a blaze of orange and pink, casting a warm glow over the lush greenery that blankets the landscape. The air is filled with the mingling aromas of salt from the ocean and earth from the wet foliage, creating a fresh, invigorating scent that awakens the senses.

The town is alive with the hustle of marketplaces where vibrant stalls are laden with the day's catch and fresh produce. Fishermen haul in their nets, their faces weathered and lined but bright with the satisfaction of a fruitful morning. The chatter of vendors calling out their fares weaves through the air of local dialects and laughter.

As the sun climbs higher, its rays dance on the water's surface, turning the ocean into a shimmering expanse that stretches to the horizon. This is the backdrop of Althea’s early life—a place where nature’s bounty is both livelihood and playground for those who call it home.

Surigao's cultural fabric is richly woven with vibrant festivals and enduring traditions that are as rhythmic as the tides. Each year, the town bursts into color and sound during the Bonok-Bonok Maradjaw Karadjaw Festival, an homage to the indigenous Mamanwa tribe's rain dance. The streets swell with locals and visitors alike, all swaying to the beat of indigenous music, their bodies adorned in bright, elaborate costumes that mimic the lushness of the surrounding jungle.

Althea grew up amid these celebrations, her childhood marked by the communal spirit that these festivals foster. Her earliest memories are filled with the laughter of her neighbors and the throb of ancient drums, a reminder of the community's deep connection to both its history and its land.

Fishing, the lifeline of the community, is not just a means of livelihood but a cultural cornerstone passed down through generations. Althea's father, like many Surigaonon men, was a fisherman who taught her the art of reading the sea. From him, she learned how to interpret the color of the water and the behavior of the birds as they circled above, signs that a school of fish was near.

These lessons on the family's small boat were less about catching fish and more about inheriting wisdom. They encapsulated the community’s respect for the ocean’s bounty and underscored the sustainable practices that had been observed for decades. This respect for nature was ingrained in Althea from a young age, shaping her understanding of balance and stewardship.

Community life in Surigao is punctuated by gatherings that are as much social as they are functional. The pahina, a cooperative labor exchange where villagers help each other with farm work or house repairs, is a testament to the collective ethos that pervades the town. Althea’s family often hosted such gatherings, her home a bustling hub where neighbors shared meals and stories, and children played under the watchful eyes of elders.

These gatherings also served as informal classrooms where Althea and her peers learned the oral histories of their people—tales of ancestors, myths of land and sea, and the legends that explained the mysteries of their world. These stories, rich with moral and wisdom, were crucial in shaping Althea's worldview, instilling in her a deep sense of identity and community belonging.

Each of these cultural threads—festivals, fishing traditions, and community gatherings—contributed to became Althea’s heritage. They were integral to her upbringing, providing her with a foundation of values and a reservoir of strength that she would draw upon throughout her life. As she navigated the complexities of her journey, the lessons learned in the vibrant streets and tranquil waters of Surigao remained her guiding stars.

In the heart of Surigao, the Aquino family was known for its warmth and resilience, qualities deeply embedded in each member and reflected in their daily interactions. At the center were Althea’s parents, Amihan and Banoy, whose distinct personalities perfectly complemented each other and profoundly shaped Althea's upbringing.

Amihan Aquino, Althea's mother, was the quintessence of nurturing and wisdom. A schoolteacher by profession, she brought the patience and structure of her classroom into their home. Her days were meticulously organized, from lessons she planned to the meals she prepared, all crafted with the same attention to detail and care. Amihan's gentle demeanor was the family’s anchor, providing a sense of security and calm in even the most challenging times.

"Always remember, Althea, that knowledge is something no one can take from you," Amihan would often say during their dinner conversations, emphasizing the value of education and hard work.

Banoy Aquino, her father, was a fisherman with a robust build and a heart full of laughter. His life at sea had taught him the virtues of patience and respect for nature, lessons he was eager to pass on to his children. Banoy was the storyteller of the family, filling their evenings with tales of the sea and its mysteries, his voice rising and falling with the rhythm of an ocean wave.

“Out there, on the ocean, it’s not just about catching fish. It’s about understanding the world beneath the waves,” Banoy would explain, his stories punctuated by gestures that mimicked the rolling sea.

Althea and her younger brother, Joselito, were inseparable. Two years her junior, Joselito looked up to his sister with adoration visible to anyone who saw them together. While Althea was more reserved and studious, Joselito was full of energy and mischief, often concocting plans that led them into harmless trouble. Their bond was a source of endless amusement and occasional headaches for their parents.

At dinner, the family table was a microcosm of the world outside, a place for sharing not just meals but ideas and dreams. One evening, as they gathered around a feast of freshly caught fish and vegetables from their garden, the conversation turned towards the future.

“So, what did you learn today, Althea?” Amihan asked, passing her a plate of rice.

“I learned about human anatomy,” Althea replied, her eyes bright with excitement. “It’s fascinating how the body works like a well-oiled machine.”

“And she taught me all about the heart!” Joselito chimed in, eager to show off the day’s lesson from his sister. “It beats like this,” he continued, thumping his chest dramatically.

Banoy laughed, his eyes crinkling at the corners. “Well, just make sure you use that heart to love and that mind to think of ways to help those around you.”

These interactions, rich with love and learning, were the threads that wove the fabric of Althea's character. From her mother, she inherited a love for knowledge; from her father, the courage to explore and respect the natural world; and from Joselito, the importance of joy and curiosity. Together, they instilled in her the values that would guide her through the many challenges and triumphs to come.

The Aquino home buzzed with activity from the first light of dawn, echoing the vitality of Surigao itself. Each day began with the melodic calls of the local roosters, serving as a natural alarm for Althea and her family.

As the sun peeked over the horizon, casting a golden glow across the sea, the scent of brewing coffee filled the small, cozy kitchen. Amihan, already bustling about, would hum a traditional lullaby while preparing pandesal — local Filipino bread rolls. Althea, ever the eager assistant, stood by her mother's side, learning the art of perfecting the soft, fluffy texture of the bread.

"Make sure the dough feels just right, Althea. Not too sticky, not too dry," Amihan instructed, guiding her daughter’s hands through the motions. Together, they worked in harmony, a tandem of experience and learning, while the kitchen warmed from the heat of the oven and filled with the yeasty smell of baking bread.

Outside, Banoy and Joselito prepared for a day of fishing. The clink of gear and muffled conversation drifted into the house as they loaded the boat with nets and supplies. Their departure was always marked by Banoy's booming voice, "Take care of your mother and learn well, Althea! We'll bring back dinner!"

Midday Activities and Lunch

By mid-morning, Althea would be deep into her studies, seated at the old wooden table that doubled as her desk, textbooks and notebooks spread around her. The sound of her pen scratching against paper mingled with the distant shouts of fishermen returning with their morning catch.

Lunch was a family affair, even if it was just Althea, Amihan, and occasionally a neighbor or two joining in. The menu often featured the fresh catch of the day, which Althea and her mother would cook together. Today, they made kinilaw, a Filipino ceviche, marinated in vinegar, lime, and spices.

"Remember, the fresher the fish, the better the kinilaw," Amihan noted, as Althea carefully mixed the ingredients, her face a picture of concentration. They ate together, sharing stories and plans, the tangy, spicy aroma of the dish a perfect counterpoint to the midday heat.

Afternoon Responsibilities and Leisure

Afternoons were reserved for community engagement and leisure. Althea often helped her mother at the local school, assisting with after-class programs for younger children. Her patience and gentle manner made her a favorite among the kids, who listened raptly to her stories or eagerly joined in on simple science experiments she demonstrated.

Later, as the sun began to dip towards the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, Althea and Joselito would take a walk along the beach. This was their time to explore and play, chasing the waves back and forth, collecting shells, and watching the fishermen haul in their nets.

Evening Reflections and Dinner

Evenings in the Aquino household were a time for winding down and coming together. Dinner was a lively event, with Banoy recounting tales from the sea, often embellished with a fisherman's flair. The table was a spread of local dishes, each a testament to the day's hard work and the bounty of their surroundings.

After dinner, the family would sit outside under the stars, the air filled with the soft strumming of Banoy's guitar. These moments, simple yet profound, were Althea’s foundation. They taught her about her heritage, the value of hard work, and the importance of family.

From sunrise to sunset, the Aquino home was a microcosm of community life, each day of experiences that shaped Althea into the resilient and caring individual she would become.

Surigao Central School was a modest building set against the backdrop of towering palm trees and the distant hum of the ocean. Inside, the classrooms buzzed with the energy of eager minds, among them Althea Aquino, whose reputation for academic excellence was known well beyond the school walls.

The day of the annual Academic Excellence Awards was a significant event in the school calendar, anticipated with excitement and a bit of nervous energy by students and teachers alike. The school auditorium was festooned with ribbons and balloons, creating a festive atmosphere that matched the pride shining on the faces of parents and educators gathered for the ceremony.

Althea sat quietly among her peers, her demeanor calm yet attentive, her eyes occasionally scanning the crowd for her parents. As the principal began the award announcements, there was a hush of anticipation. When Althea’s name was called for the top honors in science and mathematics, a ripple of applause broke out, swelling into a wave of cheers as she made her way to the stage.

"Althea Aquino has not only excelled in her studies but has consistently demonstrated a curiosity and dedication that sets her apart," the principal announced as Althea reached the podium. Her teachers nodded in agreement, their faces alight with pride. In the audience, Althea’s mother wiped away a tear, while her father’s chest puffed with unspoken pride.

As Althea received her awards—a stack of books and a certificate—she looked out at the crowd, her heart swelling with gratitude. "Thank you to my teachers for guiding me, my classmates for challenging me, and my family for supporting me," she said, her voice steady and clear. Her speech was brief but heartfelt, resonating with sincerity that earned her another round of applause.

Post-ceremony, Althea was surrounded by classmates, all eager to congratulate her. "You're going to be a great doctor one day, Althea," one of her friends remarked, a comment that sparked a chorus of agreement. Althea smiled, thanking them, her mind filled with dreams of the future, but her feet firmly planted in the gratitude of the moment.

Her science teacher, Mr. Lazo, approached with a broad smile. "I expect great things from you, Althea. Keep pushing the boundaries of your knowledge," he encouraged, his belief in her abilities clear. "I will, Sir. Thank you for everything," Althea responded, her respect for him evident in her demeanor.

The event not only celebrated Althea’s academic achievements but also highlighted her role as a beacon of hope and inspiration within the community. Younger students looked up to her, seeing in her a model of what dedication and hard work could achieve. Parents whispered among themselves, hopeful that their children might emulate her success.

As the day drew to a close, the sun set over Surigao, casting long shadows across the schoolyard. Althea, walking home with her family, felt a profound sense of responsibility and determination. Today was a celebration, but tomorrow, the work would continue. Her journey was just beginning, and she was ready for the challenges it would bring.

Nestled beneath the gentle sway of palm leaves, Althea sat on the porch of her family home, a medical textbook sprawled open in her lap. Her mind wandered from the printed pages to a memory that continually fueled her aspirations—a summer spent volunteering at a local medical camp organized by Dr. Rosales, Surigao’s most respected physician.

It was during that sweltering summer when Althea, at the tender age of fifteen, assisted Dr. Rosales at the medical camp. The camp was rudimentary, set up in the community hall with tables as makeshift beds and chairs for the waiting area. Despite the humble setting, the impact was profound. Althea watched in awe as Dr. Rosales treated each patient with unmatched dedication and compassion, turning limited resources into life-changing interventions.

"Medicine is not just a science; it’s an art of caring," Dr. Rosales had said one afternoon, noticing Althea’s keen interest. "It’s about making tough decisions that could either save a life or teach you a valuable lesson for next time."

Now, reflecting on those words, Althea felt a surge of determination. Could I carry that responsibility? she wondered. The weight of decisions, the joy of healing, the heartbreak of loss—am I ready for that? Her heart said yes, echoing with a passion for science and a deep-seated desire to help those in need.

The challenges were not lost on her. She knew the path to becoming a doctor was fraught with years of rigorous study, steep tuition fees, and relentless competition. Yet, the vision of helping her community, of possibly transforming healthcare in Surigao, pushed these doubts to the background.

Her community needed better healthcare. Althea had seen too many preventable ailments claim lives, simply because the nearest hospital was hours away or because there weren't enough trained doctors in rural areas. I want to come back here, she thought, armed with knowledge and tools to make a difference.

The memory of a young mother at the camp, holding her newborn with gratitude in her eyes after Dr. Rosales’ timely intervention, solidified her resolve. That’s the impact I want to have,Althea mused, feeling a mix of excitement and fear at the prospect.

Challenges Ahead

But the road was daunting. The competitive entrance exams, the potential need for scholarships, the expectation to excel—each step loomed large. Yet, with each challenge, her resolve deepened. I will learn, I will strive, and I will succeed—not just for me, but for everyone who needs healing, she affirmed, her internal promise blending with the rhythmic sounds of the evening tide.

As dusk turned to night, the pages of her textbook glowed under the porch light, each word a stepping stone toward her dream. Althea closed her eyes for a moment, envisioning her future: Dr. Althea Aquino, not just a physician, but a healer of her people. With a deep breath, she opened her eyes, picked up her pen, and began to outline her plan to make this dream a reality.

In the vibrant community of Surigao, where everyone knows your name and your business, Althea Aquino stood out not just for her academic prowess but also for her deep commitment to her community. Her leadership was most visible during the annual beach clean-up, an event she had championed since witnessing the detrimental effects of pollution on her coastal town.

As the president of her school’s environmental club, Althea took it upon herself to organize the event, transforming it from a small-scale effort into a significant community-wide initiative. Months before the clean-up, she was already busy planning, rallying volunteers, and seeking support from local businesses for supplies and refreshments.

One particularly humid Saturday morning marked the culmination of her efforts. Under a sky streaked with crimson and orange hues, Althea stood at the center of the bustling beach, a megaphone in hand, directing volunteers who had gathered in large numbers, their hands ready to restore the beauty of their natural surroundings.

“Let’s remember why we’re here today,” Althea projected her voice over the sound of the waves. “This beach is our home, our pride. It’s up to us to keep it clean and safe for everyone.” Her words, heartfelt and earnest, stirred a sense of responsibility in the young and old alike.

Despite the early hour, the turnout was impressive. Schoolchildren, parents, local fishermen, and even a few tourists joined the effort. They spread out along the shore, armed with bags and gloves, picking up everything from plastic bottles to abandoned fishing nets. Althea moved among the groups, offering encouragement, helping to sort the recyclables from the trash, and ensuring everyone stayed hydrated.

However, not everyone shared her enthusiasm initially. Some older residents were skeptical, muttering about how one day of cleaning wouldn’t make much difference. Althea approached them with a smile, her demeanor respectful yet confident.

“I understand your concerns, but every bit helps,” she explained. “And maybe if we start, others will follow our example. Change has to start somewhere, right?”

Her words, simple yet powerful, gradually changed hearts and minds. By the end of the day, those same skeptics were among the most active participants, their faces glowing with pride as they looked over a now pristine beach.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the freshly cleaned coastline, Althea stood back to admire the day’s work. The beach looked transformed, and so did the people around her, united by a common cause and a shared sense of accomplishment.

Later, gathered around a bonfire, the community celebrated their hard work with stories and laughter, the firelight dancing in their eyes. Althea felt a deep connection to these people and this place. She knew that her path would take her far, perhaps to distant cities for her medical training, but her heart would always remain here, anchored in the community that had raised her.

This event was more than just a clean-up; it was a testament to Althea’s ability to lead and inspire, qualities that would serve her well in her future career as a physician. She realized that medicine, like environmental conservation, was about healing, about leaving things better than you found them—a principle she was ready to apply in all her future endeavors.

In the tightly knit community of Surigao, where personal stories of town life, Althea Aquino was a figure of inspiration and respect. Her reputation as a diligent student and a compassionate individual was known to all, but it was her personal interactions that truly defined her role within the community.

One of the most influential relationships in Althea’s life was with Dr. Rosales, the town’s revered physician who saw potential in her from an early age. During one of their many after-school sessions, Dr. Rosales shared insights that went beyond textbooks, preparing Althea for the realities of medical practice.

"Althea, medicine is more than knowledge; it’s about connecting with people," Dr. Rosales advised as they reviewed patient histories. His office was cluttered with medical books and papers, but every item had its place.

"I’ve noticed that Dr. Rosales. I see how patients respond to you. They trust you not just because you’re knowledgeable, but because they feel you truly care," Althea responded, her eyes reflecting her earnest desire to emulate his approach.

"Exactly! And that’s why I believe you’ll make an excellent doctor. You have the mind and the heart for it," Dr. Rosales affirmed, placing a reassuring hand on her shoulder. This mentorship was pivotal, not just in shaping her professional aspirations but also in reinforcing her personal philosophy of care.

Althea's ability to inspire wasn’t limited to her academic endeavors; it was also evident in her friendships. Her best friend, Maria, was often by her side, whether they were studying together or participating in community activities.

"Althea, you’re always pushing us to do better. To think bigger," Maria said one afternoon as they organized books at the local library for an upcoming literacy drive. The warm, sunlit room buzzed with the quiet sounds of sorting and shelving.

Laughing, Althea nudged her gently, "We push each other, Maria. That’s what friends are for, right? To lift each other up."

Althea's interactions weren’t confined to her immediate circle. Her presence was felt throughout the community, from the youngest schoolchildren, whom she tutored, to the elderly, whom she assisted during community health drives. Her ability to connect with a diverse range of individuals was a testament to her empathy and understanding.

At a town hall meeting to discuss health initiatives, a local elder stood up to speak. "We’ve seen many young folks come and go, but Althea is different. She has the dedication of someone who truly wants to make a difference here," he said, his voice carrying across the crowded room. Murmurs of agreement followed, echoing the community’s collective endorsement of Althea’s efforts.

These moments, rich with dialogue and genuine connections, painted a clear picture of Althea’s role in Surigao. Her influence extended beyond her immediate actions; it was rooted in the deep relationships she nurtured, reflecting her commitment to her community. Her reputation as a budding medical professional and a proactive community member was not just a testament to her skills but also to her heart, firmly anchored in the values instilled by her family and her town.

As the twilight deepened into a velvet night, Althea found herself alone on the beach, the gentle lap of waves accompanying her thoughts. She sat on the soft sand, drawing her knees close, gazing out over the ocean where the water met the sky in a seamless dark expanse. Above, the stars blinked into existence, one by one, as if the heavens were slowly lighting up just for her.

With her day’s successes and interactions still fresh in her mind, Althea allowed herself a rare moment of stillness to ponder the weaving paths of her future. The soft symphony of the sea seemed to beckon her thoughts to flow as freely as the waters before her.

"Today was a reminder," she mused quietly to herself, the words barely a whisper, blending with the whispering wind. "A reminder of where I come from, the strength of our community, and what I aim to bring back here." Each wave that washed ashore seemed to echo her resolve, strengthening her aspirations with its persistent rhythm.

She thought about Dr. Rosales’ encouraging words earlier in the day, how he had said she was meant to do great things. "But what does 'great' look like?" Althea pondered. "Is it enough to want to heal? Or is there more that I can, that I must, do for Surigao?" The weight of potential responsibility felt as vast as the ocean itself, filled with both opportunity and an intimidating depth of challenge.

Althea’s thoughts drifted to her family—her mother's gentle wisdom, her father's robust tales of the sea, and Joselito’s infectious laughter. "They see so much in me; I can’t let them down." She felt a surge of gratitude for their unwavering support, mixed with a fierce determination not to disappoint them. "I will be a doctor. I will make a difference here," she resolved, her voice firmer now, speaking to the stars as if sealing her vow to the universe.

Yet, amid the certainties, doubts whispered like the sea foam that retreated from the sand. The scale of her dreams scared her—the years of study, the distance from home during her education, the challenges of bringing her knowledge back to a place so remote, so nestled away from the technological frontiers of medicine.

"But challenges," she reminded herself, turning her gaze upward to the constellations that had watched over her since childhood, "are just invitations for solutions. They are not stop signs; they are benchmarks." This perspective calmed her, aligning her fears with her hopes, blending them into a determination that felt as perennial as the waves.

As the night deepened, Althea rose, brushing the sand from her clothes. She looked once more across the water, taking a deep breath of the salty air. With each star that twinkled, she felt a corresponding spark within her—a promise, a potential, a future. And with a quiet confidence, she walked back towards her home, her path lit by moonlight, ready to face whatever lay ahead.