Willie Ong diagnosed with cancer

Metro Manila, Philippines – Famous cardiologist and former vice-presidential candidate Willie Ong has been diagnosed with cancer, he said in his vlog on Saturday, Sept. 14.

In a video taken on Aug. 29, Ong revealed that doctors found sarcoma in his abdomen - what Cleveland Clinic defines as a “type of malignant (cancerous) tumor that develops in bone and connective tissue”.

Ong said symptoms began to show as early as April 2023 while he was conducting a medical mission.

By August this year, Ong said he encountered severe back pain - which he described as the “worst pain” of his life.

“The tumor was hidden behind the heart and in front of the T10 Spine. The mass partially/completely blocked Doc Willie's esophagus, Inferior vena cava, and right atrium,” Ong wrote on Facebook.

“Sabi ng doctor ko, ang sarcoma ay mahirap na kalaban. Isa sa pinakamahirap na cancer. Kulang ang research, kulang ang bagong gamot. Medyo miracle,” he said in his vlog.

[Translation: My doctors told me sarcoma is a difficult enemy. That’s one of the hardest cancers to battle. Research and new medicines are lacking. It’s like a miracle (to survive)]

Ong said he is undergoing chemotherapy and is now feeling better.

“Alam ko may Diyos. Alam ko may purpose buhay ko. Gagaling ba ako or hindi? I don’t know,” the cardiologist said.

[I know there is God. I know my life has a purpose. Will I get well or not? I don’t know]

Ong ran for vice-president in 2022 but lost to Sara Duterte.