Thanks to the generous support of the Guillermo and Marta de Venecia Fund, UW Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences (DOVS) alum Christine Larsen, MD (Glaucoma Fellow ’13) and PGY3 resident Rushi Mankad, MD recently completed a one-week global ophthalmology rotation in the Philippines, from May 16–25, 2025.
During their time abroad, they collaborated with DOVS fellowship alumni Dr. Catherine Qui-Macaraig (Pediatric Fellow ’94) and Dr. Edith Navarro (Cornea Fellow ’95), working at the Tzu Chi Eye Center, University of Santo Tomas (UST), UST-Hospital, and Cardinal Santos Medical Center.
Dr. Mankad actively participated in patient care and assisted in a wide range of procedures, including cataract surgeries, minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries, and retina cases.
“I was struck by the high volume and complexity of disease,” said Dr. Mankad. “The efficiency of the free eye clinic was incredible—it serves hundreds of patients daily, many of whom travel overnight and wait outside just for the chance to be seen. Practicing in this resource-limited setting deepened my respect for our international colleagues and highlighted the urgent global need for accessible eye care. I’m especially grateful to Dr. Catherine Macaraig, Dr. Edith Navarro, and Dr. Antonio Say for their generous hospitality and mentorship.”
Dr. Larsen similarly expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve in the Philippines through the partnership with DOVS.
“During my residency, I was fortunate to participate in several international service experiences,” Dr. Larsen said, “and it was especially meaningful to help provide that same opportunity to another trainee as alumni faculty. The partnership between our institutions is truly inspiring – built on mutual respect, cultural exchange, and collaborative learning. Global ophthalmology reminds us how much can be accomplished with limited resources and deepens our gratitude for the advantages we often take for granted within our own healthcare system.”
