DAVAO CITY — The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) has etched its name in Mindanao’s medical history after successfully performing the region’s first-ever Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) surgery for a patient suffering from X-linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism (XDP), locally known as Lubag, on February 7, 2026.
The landmark procedure marks a major breakthrough in neurosurgical care in southern Philippines, offering renewed hope to patients afflicted with the rare and debilitating neurological disorder that has long affected families, particularly in parts of Mindanao and the Visayas.
A Milestone in Advanced Neurosurgery
The groundbreaking surgery was made possible through a strategic partnership between SPMC and the Cardinal Santos Medical Center Brain and Spine Center in Metro Manila. The procedure was led by renowned neurosurgeons Dr. Jose Aguilar, Dr. Theodor Vesagas, and Dr. Levi Maliwat of Cardinal Santos, together with SPMC neurosurgeon Dr. Joselv Albano.
The multidisciplinary team also included movement disorder specialist Dr. Alfand Marl Dy-Closas, neuroanesthesiologist Dr. Ma. Andriane Colina, and other neurology and surgical experts, ensuring the highest standards of precision, safety, and patient care.
Overall leadership of the historic operation was provided by Dr. Jose Nicanor Del Rosario III, Chairman of the Institute of Clinical Neurosciences, under the oversight of SPMC Medical Center Chief Dr. Ricardo Audan.
Hospital officials said the successful collaboration demonstrates how public and private medical institutions can work together to bring world-class healthcare closer to communities in Mindanao.
Understanding Deep Brain Stimulation and Lubag
Deep Brain Stimulation is a highly specialized neurosurgical procedure that involves implanting electrodes into specific areas of the brain. These electrodes deliver controlled electrical impulses that help regulate abnormal brain activity, significantly reducing symptoms such as involuntary movements, muscle stiffness, tremors, and motor dysfunction.
DBS is widely used in developed countries to treat Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, and other movement disorders. However, its availability in Mindanao has long been limited, forcing patients to seek treatment in Metro Manila or abroad — often at great financial and emotional cost.
X-linked Dystonia-Parkinsonism, or Lubag, is a rare genetic condition that primarily affects Filipino males. It is characterized by progressive muscle spasms, abnormal postures, and Parkinson-like symptoms that severely impair mobility and quality of life. Over time, many patients become dependent on caregivers and are unable to work.
For years, access to advanced treatment options such as DBS has remained out of reach for many Lubag patients in southern Philippines.
Bringing Hope Closer to Home
With the successful surgery, SPMC has taken a decisive step toward changing that reality.
“This achievement brings advanced neurosurgical care closer to Mindanaoans,” hospital officials said in a statement. “It reflects our commitment to providing innovative, patient-centered healthcare and reducing the need for patients to travel far from home for life-changing treatments.”
Medical experts involved in the procedure emphasized that performing DBS requires not only advanced equipment, but also highly trained specialists, precise imaging technology, and coordinated post-operative care — all of which were mobilized for the historic operation.
The patient is now undergoing close monitoring and rehabilitation, with doctors expressing optimism about long-term improvement in symptoms and quality of life.
Strengthening Mindanao’s Medical Capacity
The milestone highlights the growing capability of SPMC as a tertiary referral hospital and a leading training and research institution in the region. It also signals the strengthening of the SPMC Institute of Clinical Neurosciences as a hub for advanced neurological care.
Dr. Del Rosario said the successful procedure reflects years of investment in training, infrastructure, and partnerships.
“This is not just a victory for one patient,” he noted. “It is a victory for Mindanao’s healthcare system and for every family who dreams of accessible, high-quality medical treatment in their own region.”
Dr. Audan, for his part, underscored the importance of continued support from government and stakeholders to sustain such initiatives.
“Our goal is to make SPMC a center of excellence for neurosurgery and specialized care in southern Philippines,” he said. “This achievement proves that we are moving in the right direction.”
A New Chapter for Lubag Patients
For families affected by Lubag, the successful DBS surgery represents more than a medical accomplishment — it is a symbol of hope.
Patient advocates have long called for greater attention to XDP, which remains underdiagnosed and underfunded despite its devastating impact. The availability of DBS in Mindanao opens new possibilities for early intervention, research, and long-term disease management.
Health officials believe the procedure will pave the way for more DBS surgeries in the future, potentially benefiting dozens of patients who previously had limited options.
Looking Ahead
SPMC officials said they plan to further strengthen their neurosurgical and neurological services through continuous training, equipment upgrades, and expanded partnerships with leading medical institutions.
As Mindanao’s first DBS surgery enters the history books, it also marks the beginning of a new era in regional healthcare — one where cutting-edge treatment is no longer confined to major urban centers, but made accessible to patients who need it most.
For the patient who underwent the procedure on February 7, and for countless others living with Lubag, that new era has already begun.