BMC doctor cited by US psychiatric association

By Mylce Mella

The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has recognized Dr. Orville Jess A. Pandes, Bicol Medical Center’s (BMC) Department of Psychiatry consultant, as one of the 2020 Distinguished International Fellows.

According to the APA, “International Distinguished Fellows are internationally recognized for their demonstrated skill in administrative, educational and clinical settings. They are also noted for volunteering in mental health and medical activities of social significance and involvement in community activities. Excellence, not mere competence, is the hallmark of an APA International Distinguished Fellow.”

Pandes has been a consultant of the BMC Department of Psychiatry since 2012 and one of the brains behind the modernization of the mental institution. According to him, the recognition is not only a testament to him but all Filipino psychiatrists.

“It is an acknowledgment of a Filipino psychiatrist’s global competence and excellence.” Pandes said.

Pandes received the title in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, during the 2022 Convocation of Distinguished Fellows of the American Psychiatric Association (from 2020-2022) last Monday, May 23, 2022.