Field
Location (during time of takeover)
School/Institution
| Undergrad | University of Santo Tomas Nursing |
|---|---|
| MD | University of Santo Tomas Medicine |
Featured on February 1, 2026
Taking over this week is Dr Natasha Benitez, Chief of Health Informatics at the San Carlos City Health Office.
Natasha graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing and a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Santo Tomas. As a medical intern under the Department of Health’s specialized care program, she trained at the National Kidney and Transplant Institute, East Avenue Medical Center, Lung Center of the Philippines, and the Philippine Heart Center. She also had a brief stint as an Internal Medicine resident at Chinese General Hospital, where she provided care across various specialties and assisted in managing COVID-19 patients. She later pursued nearly two years of Radiology residency at St. Luke’s Medical Center – Quezon City before transitioning to public health.
As a doctor who wears multiple hats, Natasha is also a Drug Rehabilitation and Rural Health Physician, HIV Counselor and Program Manager of the San Carlos City Health Office. Among her responsibilities include leading the tuberculosis, HIV, STI and leprosy programs, among others. She pioneered the Proud and Positive Campaign, organizing the city’s first Pride Parade to reduce stigma.
To address the rising HIV cases among youth and other vulnerable populations, she now leads Lakbay Kalusugan: HIV Awareness and Testing Caravan. The initiative aims to expand outreach, strengthen community education, and make testing more accessible and youth-friendly. As Chief of Health Informatics, she launched a zero-budget digital health platform and developed an anonymous, privacy-focused appointment and symptom-reporting module. She also conceptualised and planned digital health systems for HIV/STI systems. Ultimately, her goal is to bridge healthcare gaps through digital innovation and inclusive, evidence-based solutions.
Fun facts about Natasha:
- She was born left-handed, but her kindergarten teacher trained her to write with her right hand.
- Last year, in preparation for February, she created a full RPG game as a Valentine’s gift that tells the story of her love life.
- She received a Best Acting Award during her time in medical school.
