Pioneering Innovation in Pulmonology:
Dr. Tabuena and the TB Lamp Breakthrough
Dr. Tabuena’s dedication to advancing pulmonology led to groundbreaking work in pulmonary disease treatment and diagnostics. Among his notable contributions is the development of the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test Kit (TB Lamp), introduced in Iloilo City hospitals. This affordable, user-friendly tool diagnoses pulmonary tuberculosis within 60 minutes—far faster than the traditional three-day sputum smear method—while meeting the same biosafety standards. With high accuracy and no need for advanced equipment, the TB Lamp has made tuberculosis testing more accessible and efficient.
As a proud Ilonggo, Dr. Rollin Palermo Tabuena has dedicated his career to advancing pulmonary medicine through innovation. His pioneering work on the TB-LAMP test kit for tuberculosis has made diagnosis faster, more affordable, and more accessible—helping address one of the Philippines’ most pressing public health challenges. Recognized with multiple international and national awards, including Asia’s Most Distinguished Doctor in Pulmonary Medicine, he continues to redefine what it means to humanize healthcare. “Excellence is not just in discovery,” he notes, “but in making sure innovation touches lives.”
The Pinnacle of Pulmonary Medicine (Asia’s Most Distinguished Doctor in Pulmonary Medicine)
Receiving the Asia’s Influential Leader Award marked a defining milestone in Dr. Tabuena’s journey. This recognition celebrates not only his professional success but also his transformative impact on healthcare and public service in Iloilo and beyond. The award highlights his integrity, compassion, and visionary leadership in medicine—qualities that continue to inspire peers and patients alike. For Dr. Tabuena, influence is not measured by fame or titles, but by how deeply one can touch lives and drive positive change. His influence extends from hospital corridors to rural communities, where his programs and initiatives uplift health outcomes. The honor acknowledges his consistent pursuit of excellence balanced by humility and empathy. He views the recognition as both an achievement and a responsibility to continue mentoring and serving. Through this award, Dr. Tabuena reinforces that true leadership in medicine begins with service, not status.
The Ambassador for Life
“An Ambassador for Life represents a profound, lifelong commitment to championing an organization’s mission. It is a role defined by unwavering passion, proactive advocacy, and the ability to inspire and mobilize others. At its heart, it means leading by example and serving as a role model for meaningful, lasting change.”
For Dr. Tabuena, being a doctor has always gone beyond diagnosing and treating disease. It is about standing with patients in their most difficult moments, offering not only medical expertise but also empathy, encouragement, and hope. Physicians, he believes, are not only healers but also community leaders, educators, and advocates for public health and equity.
“It brings me back to the reason I became a doctor in the first place: to change the world, not just the exam room. Medicine is a lifelong mission—our work extends far beyond the stethoscope, whether we are responding to global health challenges, training the next generation of physicians, or giving voice to the marginalized.”
Dr. Rollin Tabuena believes that a healthy environment is vital to a healthy community. Through his active participation in tree-planting drives, he promotes the connection between environmental wellness and public health—reminding everyone that caring for nature also means caring for the air we breathe. His involvement reflects his holistic approach to medicine, where prevention and sustainability go hand in hand. This initiative symbolizes his lifelong advocacy to heal both people and the planet.
Pioneering Innovation in Pulmonology:
Dr. Tabuena and the TB Lamp Breakthrough
Dr. Tabuena’s dedication to advancing pulmonology led to groundbreaking work in pulmonary disease treatment and diagnostics. Among his notable contributions is the development of the Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification Test Kit (TB Lamp), introduced in Iloilo City hospitals. This affordable, user-friendly tool diagnoses pulmonary tuberculosis within 60 minutes—far faster than the traditional three-day sputum smear method—while meeting the same biosafety standards. With high accuracy and no need for advanced equipment, the TB Lamp has made tuberculosis testing more accessible and efficient.
As a proud Ilonggo, Dr. Rollin Palermo Tabuena has dedicated his career to advancing pulmonary medicine through innovation. His pioneering work on the TB-LAMP test kit for tuberculosis has made diagnosis faster, more affordable, and more accessible—helping address one of the Philippines’ most pressing public health challenges. Recognized with multiple international and national awards, including Asia’s Most Distinguished Doctor in Pulmonary Medicine, he continues to redefine what it means to humanize healthcare. “Excellence is not just in discovery,” he notes, “but in making sure innovation touches lives.”
The Ambassador for Life
“An Ambassador for Life represents a profound, lifelong commitment to championing an organization’s mission. It is a role defined by unwavering passion, proactive advocacy, and the ability to inspire and mobilize others. At its heart, it means leading by example and serving as a role model for meaningful, lasting change.”
For Dr. Tabuena, being a doctor has always gone beyond diagnosing and treating disease. It is about standing with patients in their most difficult moments, offering not only medical expertise but also empathy, encouragement, and hope. Physicians, he believes, are not only healers but also community leaders, educators, and advocates for public health and equity.
“It brings me back to the reason I became a doctor in the first place: to change the world, not just the exam room. Medicine is a lifelong mission—our work extends far beyond the stethoscope, whether we are responding to global health challenges, training the next generation of physicians, or giving voice to the marginalized.”
Dr. Rollin Tabuena believes that a healthy environment is vital to a healthy community. Through his active participation in tree-planting drives, he promotes the connection between environmental wellness and public health—reminding everyone that caring for nature also means caring for the air we breathe. His involvement reflects his holistic approach to medicine, where prevention and sustainability go hand in hand. This initiative symbolizes his lifelong advocacy to heal both people and the planet.
Faith in Action
Dr. Tabuena’s service extends beyond hospitals into the heart of the community, where faith and compassion intersect. He often collaborates with church groups and community leaders to bring healthcare closer to the people who need it most. Together with his team and his wife, he organizes free medical missions that offer consultations, checkups, and medicines to underserved families. His involvement with the “Carmelite Sisters” and other faith-based volunteers reflects his belief that healing is both a physical and spiritual act. These women, respected pillars of their congregations, have become his partners in promoting preventive health education and emotional support networks. Dr. Tabuena’s presence in these gatherings reflects humility—he meets people where they are, in churches and barangay halls, not just clinics. Each encounter strengthens community bonds and reinforces that medicine must walk hand in hand with empathy. Through faith-driven service, he exemplifies a kind of leadership rooted in love, purpose, and grace.
Leadership with Heart
Receiving the Asia’s Influential Leader Award marked a defining milestone in Dr. Tabuena’s journey. This recognition celebrates not only his professional success but also his transformative impact on healthcare and public service in Iloilo and beyond. The award highlights his integrity, compassion, and visionary leadership in medicine—qualities that continue to inspire peers and patients alike. For Dr. Tabuena, influence is not measured by fame or titles, but by how deeply one can touch lives and drive positive change. His influence extends from hospital corridors to rural communities, where his programs and initiatives uplift health outcomes. The honor acknowledges his consistent pursuit of excellence balanced by humility and empathy. He views the recognition as both an achievement and a responsibility to continue mentoring and serving. Through this award, Dr. Tabuena reinforces that true leadership in medicine begins with service, not status.
Leadership with Heart
Receiving the Asia’s Influential Leader Award marked a defining milestone in Dr. Tabuena’s journey. This recognition celebrates not only his professional success but also his transformative impact on healthcare and public service in Iloilo and beyond. The award highlights his integrity, compassion, and visionary leadership in medicine—qualities that continue to inspire peers and patients alike. For Dr. Tabuena, influence is not measured by fame or titles, but by how deeply one can touch lives and drive positive change. His influence extends from hospital corridors to rural communities, where his programs and initiatives uplift health outcomes. The honor acknowledges his consistent pursuit of excellence balanced by humility and empathy. He views the recognition as both an achievement and a responsibility to continue mentoring and serving. Through this award, Dr. Tabuena reinforces that true leadership in medicine begins with service, not status.
Faith in Action
Dr. Tabuena’s service extends beyond hospitals into the heart of the community, where faith and compassion intersect. He often collaborates with church groups and community leaders to bring healthcare closer to the people who need it most. Together with his team and his wife, he organizes free medical missions that offer consultations, checkups, and medicines to underserved families. His involvement with the “Carmelite Sisters” and other faith-based volunteers reflects his belief that healing is both a physical and spiritual act. These women, respected pillars of their congregations, have become his partners in promoting preventive health education and emotional support networks. Dr. Tabuena’s presence in these gatherings reflects humility—he meets people where they are, in churches and barangay halls, not just clinics. Each encounter strengthens community bonds and reinforces that medicine must walk hand in hand with empathy. Through faith-driven service, he exemplifies a kind of leadership rooted in love, purpose, and grace.
Honoring Excellence, Honoring Roots (Distinguished Alumni – WVSU)
Dr. Tabuena’s service extends beyond hospitals into the heart of the community, where faith and compassion intersect. He often collaborates with church groups and community leaders to bring healthcare closer to the people who need it most. Together with his team and his wife, he organizes free medical missions that offer consultations, checkups, and medicines to underserved families. His involvement with the “madres” and other faith-based volunteers reflects his belief that healing is both a physical and spiritual act. These women, respected pillars of their congregations, have become his partners in promoting preventive health education and emotional support networks. Dr. Tabuena’s presence in these gatherings reflects humility—he meets people where they are, in churches and barangay halls, not just clinics. Each encounter strengthens community bonds and reinforces that medicine must walk hand in hand with empathy. Through faith-driven service, he exemplifies a kind of leadership rooted in love, purpose, and grace.
The Community Advocate
Beyond his impressive medical résumé, Dr. Rollin Palermo Tabuena is a passionate advocate for community health. Together with his wife, renowned neurologist Dr. Ma. Daisy Tabuena, they are affectionately known as the “Dancing Doctors of Iloilo” for their creative and inclusive approach to wellness promotion. From leading Zumba sessions during the pandemic to organizing community health initiatives, their efforts have uplifted both the physical and mental well-being of countless Ilonggos.
Fondly known as one of the “Dancing Doctors of Iloilo,” Dr. Tabuena uses energy and movement to inspire better health habits. His Zumba sessions bring people together to experience fitness in an enjoyable, inclusive way—bridging medicine and community joy. During the pandemic, these activities uplifted spirits, encouraged physical activity, and reinforced the importance of preventive care. For Dr. Tabuena, health advocacy is not just about treatment—it’s about motivating people to live active, happy lives.
The Community Advocate
Beyond his impressive medical résumé, Dr. Rollin Palermo Tabuena is a passionate advocate for community health. Together with his wife, renowned neurologist Dr. Ma. Daisy Tabuena, they are affectionately known as the “Dancing Doctors of Iloilo” for their creative and inclusive approach to wellness promotion. From leading Zumba sessions during the pandemic to organizing community health initiatives, their efforts have uplifted both the physical and mental well-being of countless Ilonggos.
Fondly known as one of the “Dancing Doctors of Iloilo,” Dr. Tabuena uses energy and movement to inspire better health habits. His Zumba sessions bring people together to experience fitness in an enjoyable, inclusive way—bridging medicine and community joy. During the pandemic, these activities uplifted spirits, encouraged physical activity, and reinforced the importance of preventive care. For Dr. Tabuena, health advocacy is not just about treatment—it’s about motivating people to live active, happy lives.
Honoring Excellence, Honoring Roots (Distinguished Alumni – WVSU)
Dr. Tabuena’s service extends beyond hospitals into the heart of the community, where faith and compassion intersect. He often collaborates with church groups and community leaders to bring healthcare closer to the people who need it most. Together with his team and his wife, he organizes free medical missions that offer consultations, checkups, and medicines to underserved families. His involvement with the “madres” and other faith-based volunteers reflects his belief that healing is both a physical and spiritual act. These women, respected pillars of their congregations, have become his partners in promoting preventive health education and emotional support networks. Dr. Tabuena’s presence in these gatherings reflects humility—he meets people where they are, in churches and barangay halls, not just clinics. Each encounter strengthens community bonds and reinforces that medicine must walk hand in hand with empathy. Through faith-driven service, he exemplifies a kind of leadership rooted in love, purpose, and grace.
Precision in Practice (Bronchoscopy Expertise)
As an Interventional Bronchoscopist, Dr. Tabuena has elevated pulmonary care standards in Western Visayas. Trained at the Hospital Torette in Ancona, Italy, he brings advanced techniques in minimally invasive lung procedures to local hospitals. Bronchoscopy, a delicate diagnostic and therapeutic tool, allows him to identify airway issues, remove obstructions, and detect infections with precision. Under his expertise, patients receive safer, faster, and more accurate diagnoses of complex respiratory conditions. He has also trained and mentored fellow doctors in adopting this life-saving technique, ensuring its accessibility across Iloilo. His work bridges European medical sophistication with Filipino compassion. Through bronchoscopy, Dr. Tabuena restores not just breathing—but confidence and quality of life—to those struggling with lung disease. His mastery in this field represents the perfect fusion of science, skill, and heart.
Precision in Practice (Bronchoscopy Expertise)
As an Interventional Bronchoscopist, Dr. Tabuena has elevated pulmonary care standards in Western Visayas. Trained at the Hospital Torette in Ancona, Italy, he brings advanced techniques in minimally invasive lung procedures to local hospitals. Bronchoscopy, a delicate diagnostic and therapeutic tool, allows him to identify airway issues, remove obstructions, and detect infections with precision. Under his expertise, patients receive safer, faster, and more accurate diagnoses of complex respiratory conditions. He has also trained and mentored fellow doctors in adopting this life-saving technique, ensuring its accessibility across Iloilo. His work bridges European medical sophistication with Filipino compassion. Through bronchoscopy, Dr. Tabuena restores not just breathing—but confidence and quality of life—to those struggling with lung disease. His mastery in this field represents the perfect fusion of science, skill, and heart.
Pioneering Research in Pulmonary Health (Candida famata Case Study)
Dr. Tabuena’s published case report, “Emergence of Candida famata Fungemia in an Immunocompromised Patient: A Case Report Highlighting Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis and Therapeutic Strategy,” showcases his commitment to advancing medical understanding through research. The study provided valuable insight into a rare but serious fungal infection seen in immunocompromised individuals. It underscored the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized antifungal therapy—critical lessons for clinicians worldwide. By documenting real-world experiences in Iloilo hospitals, Dr. Tabuena contributes to global medical literature from a local perspective. His findings highlight how emerging pathogens can challenge even advanced healthcare systems, urging continuous learning and vigilance. The report reflects his dual passion for clinical care and academic discovery. It reinforces his role not only as a practitioner but as a scholar shaping the next generation of medical research.
Pioneering Research in Pulmonary Health (Candida famata Case Study)
Dr. Tabuena’s published case report, “Emergence of Candida famata Fungemia in an Immunocompromised Patient: A Case Report Highlighting Clinical Presentation, Diagnosis and Therapeutic Strategy,” showcases his commitment to advancing medical understanding through research. The study provided valuable insight into a rare but serious fungal infection seen in immunocompromised individuals. It underscored the importance of accurate diagnosis and individualized antifungal therapy—critical lessons for clinicians worldwide. By documenting real-world experiences in Iloilo hospitals, Dr. Tabuena contributes to global medical literature from a local perspective. His findings highlight how emerging pathogens can challenge even advanced healthcare systems, urging continuous learning and vigilance. The report reflects his dual passion for clinical care and academic discovery. It reinforces his role not only as a practitioner but as a scholar shaping the next generation of medical research.
Weaving Health and Heritage: The Spirit of Hablon
Dr. Rollin Tabuena’s presence at the Hablon Festival reflects not only his pride as an Ilonggo but also his belief that health and culture are deeply intertwined. The festival, which celebrates the traditional art of hablon weaving in Iloilo, symbolizes the community’s resilience, creativity, and unity—values Dr. Tabuena also upholds in his medical practice. By joining the event, he shows support for local artisans, women’s cooperatives, and cultural preservation efforts that sustain livelihoods and strengthen community identity. For Dr. Tabuena, wellness extends beyond hospitals—it thrives in the joy, purpose, and connection that culture brings. His participation in the festival highlights his holistic view of public health, where physical well-being aligns with social and cultural vitality. As a physician rooted in his heritage, he believes that nurturing tradition helps heal communities in spirit and in body. The colorful threads of hablon mirror his life’s work—interwoven with compassion, service, and pride of place.
Weaving Health and Heritage: The Spirit of Hablon
Dr. Rollin Tabuena’s presence at the Hablon Festival reflects not only his pride as an Ilonggo but also his belief that health and culture are deeply intertwined. The festival, which celebrates the traditional art of hablon weaving in Iloilo, symbolizes the community’s resilience, creativity, and unity—values Dr. Tabuena also upholds in his medical practice. By joining the event, he shows support for local artisans, women’s cooperatives, and cultural preservation efforts that sustain livelihoods and strengthen community identity. For Dr. Tabuena, wellness extends beyond hospitals—it thrives in the joy, purpose, and connection that culture brings. His participation in the festival highlights his holistic view of public health, where physical well-being aligns with social and cultural vitality. As a physician rooted in his heritage, he believes that nurturing tradition helps heal communities in spirit and in body. The colorful threads of hablon mirror his life’s work—interwoven with compassion, service, and pride of place.
