Tony Leachon recognized as 2022 Pillar of Hope for Health Reform
SIN tax lobbyist and health reform advocate Dr. Anthony Leachon was recognized as this year’s Pillar of Hope for Health Reform by Eton International School and the Outstanding Public Health Advocate by the Public Attorney’s Office.
Leachon, an internist and cardiologist at the Manila Doctors Hospital, was the latest recipient of an academic award by Eton that recognizes individuals who embody excellence and good values in various fields such as Public Service, Sports, Health, Arts and Culture.
“As a Filipino physician, former government official, health reform advocate, and social media influencer, Dr. Leachon is an inspiration to young people and a good role model who could unlock the next generation’s potential as world changers and empower them to be as effective as possible in creating a better world,” Jacqueline Marzan-Tolentino, Eton International School principal and president, said in a statement.
Joining Leachon as Pillar of Hope awardees at the awarding ceremony last October 28 were broadcasters Pinky Webb and Karmina Constantino, UP Pathologist Dr. Raquel Fortun, and 2020 Miss Transgender Mela Habijan.
“This is an unexpected yet fulfilling award for me. Without setting rigid parameters, teachers, students, and their parents voted for their ‘pandemic hero’, and I’m most grateful they consider me as one,” Leachon, past president of Manila Doctors Hospital medical staff, shared.
A week prior to receiving the recognition from Eton, Leachon was also conferred the Outstanding Health Advocate award by the Public Attorney’s Office (PAO) during its 7th Mandatory Continuing Legal Education (MCLE)-Accredited National Convention of Public Attorneys at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC).
Leachon graduated from the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery in 1985. The multi-awarded physician was among the top passers of the Professional Regulatory Commission Medical Board in 1986, a former director of the Philippine Health Insurance Corp. (PhilHealth) Board in 2016, and a former special adviser of the National Task Force Covid-19 in 2020.