Gap Legaspi

The director of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), Dr Gerardo “Gap” Legaspi is one of the country’s top neurosurgeons. He gained international recognition for pioneering “awake craniotomies” in the Philippines—a specialised brain surgery where the patient remains conscious to help doctors protect vital functions like speech and movement. In late 2024 he was reappointed PGH Director for a historic fourth term, a rare achievement that underscores his effective leadership and dedication to public service.

Legaspi’s leadership is defined by modernisation. He pushed for infrastructure upgrades and digital records, helping PGH achieve ISO 9001:2015 certification, recognising the organisation’s quality management. Committed to equitable care, he secured funding to ensure charity patients could access free services and advanced technology such as robotic surgery. During the pandemic he guided PGH’s rapid transition into the country’s main COVID-19 referral centre, prioritising both public safety and the protection of his frontline staff.

Beyond the operating room, Legaspi focused on the well-being of the PGH community. He launched research grants specifically for nurses and technicians, empowering them to innovate alongside doctors. He also led the restoration of heritage structures like Bahay Silungan, transforming them into housing for patients and weary staff. His impact was recognised with the Presidential Lingkod Bayan Award, the Philippines’ highest honour for civil servants. Under his watch, PGH continues to uphold its mission: ensuring that world-class healthcare is a right, not a privilege, for every Filipino.