During the first week of June, I had the opportunity to visit Manila, Philippines, where we launched the Angels ASKAN Capacity Building Program focused on stroke research methodology. Led by Dr. Denis Xavier from St. John’s Medical College, Bangalore, and Dr. Deidre de Silva, the program addressed critical topics including trial design, large-scale stroke registries, and research gaps in the ASKAN region. A major milestone was the formation of the ASKAN Stroke Research Network, with several high-priority projects identified for collaborative action.
I also visited Quirino Memorial Medical Center and National General Hospital Stroke Center, where I met dedicated frontline stroke care professionals. Their commitment to improving outcomes is truly inspiring.
The ANGELS Stroke Care Meeting brought together leaders from the Stroke Society of the Philippines and WSO-ANGELS champions to shape a shared vision for sustainable stroke systems. We also engaged with the WHO Western Pacific Regional Office to explore strategies for enhancing stroke care in small island nations—an area of growing importance.
Fengxian County Hospital
Assessors training in Beijing
Later in June, I traveled to China to support the WSO Stroke Center Certification Program. Alongside Prof. Ji Xunming and Dr. Shen Li, I visited three hospitals—Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Haian People General Hospital, and Fenxian County Hospital—and trained 10 new assessors who will lead future site evaluations. Under the WSO Stroke Action China Plan, we aim to certify 100 stroke centers over the next two years, advancing quality and equity in stroke care across the country.
These initiatives reflect our shared commitment to building resilient, data-driven, and inclusive stroke systems across Asia. I look forward to continued collaboration with our regional partners as we work toward a world free of stroke.
Haian People general hospital