Cardiologist and health advocate Dr. Willie Ong, who gained prominence during his 2022 vice-presidential run, is currently undergoing cancer treatment after revealing that doctors found a large tumor in his abdomen. The tumor, a sarcoma, measures 16 x 13 x 12 centimeters and was located behind his heart and in front of his spine.
In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Ong shared that the mass is one of the largest doctors have seen. “Ang bukol na ito, malaking malaki daw. Isa sa pinakamalaki na nakita nila,” he said, recording the video from his hospital room on August 29.
Despite the challenging situation, Ong remains positive. “Malungkot ako? Hindi. Suwerte nga ako may asawa ako nagbabantay,” he said, expressing gratitude for his family’s support during this difficult time. He added that his health battle has brought him closer to his children, strengthening their bond.
Ong, popularly known as “Doc Willie,” has amassed a large following on social media, where he shares health tips to over 9.7 million YouTube subscribers and 17 million Facebook followers.
Dr. Ong previously served as a consultant for the Department of Health and holds degrees from De La Salle University and the University of the Philippines Manila.