Lisa T. Prodigalidad, MD, joined the IUGA Board as Treasurer at the beginning of 2021. She is a Clinical Associate Professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital. She also serves on the Board of Trustees of the Asia-Pacific urogynecological Association (APUGA) and is the Founding President of the Philippine Society for Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery (PSURPS).
How long have you been an IUGA member?
Prodigalidad: Since 2001
What was your path to a board position within IUGA?
Prodigalidad: My involvement with IUGA began with an IUGA eXchange Program in Manila in 2008. Working closely with the IUGA faculty made me more interested in actively participating in the various activities and committees of the association, in particular the Education Committee and the IUGA eXchange Committee. This subsequently led to an elected post as IUGA International Board Representative for Asia (2011-2013). It was during this time that we started the Pan Asian Meeting for all the Asian delegates attending the IUGA Annual Meeting. Since then and up to the present time, I continue to volunteer on various IUGA committees.
What is your role on the IUGA Board?
Prodigalidad: Treasurer (2021-2022)
What motivates you to be a volunteer leader for IUGA?
Prodigalidad: IUGA is the guiding voice in the field of urogynecology. As such, it has had a significant influence in the growth of urogynecology in the Philippines, both as a subspecialty and as a discipline, since its first visit to Manila in 2008. It has likewise extended its arms to various other countries, big and small, to promote the exchange of knowledge and skills and to promote friendship among peers. By being a volunteer in IUGA, I feel that, in my own little way, I am able to pay it forward.
What do you wish all members knew about IUGA or that you could say to all members?
Prodigalidad: IUGA fosters personal and professional growth. It is about academic advancement and collaboration whilst nurturing a spirit of camaraderie.
What’s the most exotic place you have traveled?
Prodigalidad: Morocco – navigating the old medinas in Marrakech, Fez, Rabat, and Casablanca. I stayed a few nights in a riad in Fez. Also, Jordan – trekking and climbing the ruins of Petra, glamping in the Wadi Rum Desert, bathing in the Dead Sea.
What’s your favorite food?
Prodigalidad: Anything savory, spicy, or both!
What’s the last book you read?
Prodigalidad: When Breathe Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
What are your hobbies?
Prodigalidad: Swimming, cycling, and taking long walks to wherever my feet bring me.