Dr. Jose P. Santiago, Jr: Championing Healthcare Excellence from the Philippines to the World 

In the ever-evolving landscape of Philippine healthcare, few names stand as firmly as that of Dr. Jose P. Santiago, Jr., a respected leader and advocate for the advancement of hospitals and health systems nationwide. Currently serving as the President of the Philippine Hospital Association (PHA), Dr. Santiago plays a pivotal role in shaping national healthcare strategies and uniting over 2,000 member hospitals across the country under a common mission: to improve the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of healthcare for all Filipinos.

Global Recognition and Local Impact

Dr. Santiago has represented the Philippines at international healthcare forums, bringing to light the resilience and innovation of Filipino hospitals amid adversity. Through his work, he strengthens bridges between local institutions and global health networks, allowing the Philippines to benefit from shared knowledge, best practices, and collaborative growth. He has recently been appointed as Governing Council Member for the International Hospital Federation (IHF).

A Pillar of Health Sector Leadership

Dr. Jose P. Santiago, Jr. is a distinguished leader in healthcare, renowned for his transformative leadership across prominent medical organizations. He has served as president of the Cabuyao Medical Society, Laguna Medical Society, Southern Tagalog Medical Association of Medical Practitioners (STAMP), and the Philippine Medical Association (PMA) from 2018 to 2020. The PMA, the Philippines’ preeminent medical association, represents approximately 80,000 practitioners and 119 component societies nationwide.

Since January 1, 2024, Dr. Santiago has led the Philippine Hospital Association (PHA) as president, overseeing nearly 2,000 public and private hospitals. Under his stewardship, the PHA champions its mission to lead, enable, assist, and protect hospitals in delivering high-quality care. A longstanding member of the International Hospital Federation (IHF) and the Asian Hospital Federation (AHF), the PHA benefits from Dr. Santiago’s active role on the AHF Board of Governors.

Dr. Santiago’s extensive experience in hospital administration, organizational leadership, and health advocacy has made him a trusted figure not only in the Philippines but on the global stage. His work with the International Hospital Federation (IHF)—where he has served as an alternate Governing Council Member—has brought international visibility to the challenges and strengths of the Philippine hospital system.

As PHA President, he has spearheaded numerous initiatives including nationwide hospital coordination during the COVID-19 pandemic, capacity-building programs for health administrators, and advocacy for public-private partnership models that enhance healthcare delivery.

In his personal capacity, Dr. Santiago serves as President/CEO of St. James Hospital, Inc. in Santa Rosa City, Divine Mercy Hospital, and Family Care Hospital in San Pedro, Laguna. He also holds board positions at four hospitals in Parañaque, Laguna, and Cavite, bringing extensive operational and strategic expertise to his global responsibilities.

Dr. Santiago’s unwavering commitment to healthcare excellence, both locally and globally, reflects his vision for innovative leadership in hospital management and global health policy.

Advocate for Holistic Hospital Development

Dr. Santiago is a leading voice for inclusivity and regional equity in hospital development. He has advocated for rural and smaller hospitals to receive the support they need—technically, financially, and logistically—so that every Filipino, regardless of location, can access safe and quality healthcare services. His approach goes beyond infrastructure, championing staff training, digital transformation, and better policy implementation.

A Vision for the Future

At the heart of Dr. Santiago’s work is a vision for a healthcare system that is resilient, inclusive, and people-centered. He continues to advocate for improved hospital financing models, expanded PhilHealth coverage, and integrated systems that connect preventive, curative, and rehabilitative care across the archipelago.

His leadership remains critical as the Philippines moves forward in its post-pandemic recovery, tackling persistent issues such as health worker shortages, health inequity, and rising care costs.