Medical community mourns death of doctor in Naga City

The Filipino medical community mourns the death of a doctor who was tragically found dead by shooting on Sunday, 16 February, in Naga City.

Rajean Monnette Romualdez, 36, was found in a parked car in Naga City on 16 February.

In a statement on Monday, 17 February, Bicol Medical Center (BMC) said Romualdez was "a hardworking, compassionate, and kind leader whose dedication to both her patients and colleagues left a lasting impact."

Romualdez formerly served BMC as its OB-GYNE Chief Resident.

"Her empathy, work ethic, and inspiring presence will be deeply missed," the hospital said.

"Our heartfelt condolences go out to her family and all who had the privilege of knowing her. Dr. Romualdez's legacy of excellence and kindness will continue to inspire us all," it added.

Medical doctor and vlogger Jude Rey Pagaling also known as "Doc Jude Rey" also condemned the killing of Romualdez.

"She spent years in medical school, survived the grueling hours of residency, dedicated her life to saving others! Only to have it all stolen in an instant by a single bullet," Pangaling wrote on his Facebook page.

Ob-Gyn and medical educator Ryan Borja Capitulo recalled that she met Romualdez when he conducted a Patient Safety Workshop in BMC.

"We pray for her soul. We pray for her family. We condole with our colleagues at Bicol Medical Center and [Philippine Obstetrical and Gynecological] Region 5," Capitulo said.

"We also pray for a thorough investigation and fast resolution of this case. May the perpetrator/s be apprehended the soonest," he added.

In a statement issued Monday evening, the Naga City Police Office said the search for the person of interest is ongoing and has formed a Special Investigation Team to probe the death of Romualdez.

The Naga City government earlier announced that it is offering a P200,000 reward to anyone who can provide information to help resolve the case.