The invention of the incubator is one of the notable milestones in the healthcare system, specifically for premature babies. Every time people mention such a wonderful creation, there’s a name that will instantly pop in the heads of the Filipinos, which is the National Scientist of the Philippines, Dr. Fe Del Mundo. 

Fe Villanueva Del Mundo was born in Manila on November 27, 1911. She was the sixth of the eight children of Bernardo Del Mundo and Paz Santos. At an early age, she witnessed the death of her four siblings – three who died in infancy, while her older sister died due to appendicitis. This pushed her to pursue a career in the medical field. 

Del Mundo accomplished several achievements throughout her academic life. In 1933, she earned a medical degree and earned the highest honors in the University of the Philippines. Then, she obtained her Master’s degree in bacteriology at the Boston University School of Medicine. 

In 1941, Del Mundo returned to the Philippines, then volunteered at the University of Santo Tomas internment camp for foreign nationals. Two years later, she was assigned to be the head of a children’s hospital, which later on became a full-care medical center, called the North General Hospital.

Del Mundo wrote more than 100 write-ups published in medical journals, and conducted studies that contributed to the invention of an improved incubator. Her research also led to the conceptualization of the banana, rice, apple and tea (BRAT) diet, which is used as a treatment for diarrhea or stomach issues.
 
In 1957, Del Mundo decided to establish her own Children’s Memorial Hospital (now known as the Fe Del Mundo Medical Center), in Banawe, Quezon City. The facility had a 107-bed capacity and was dedicated to providing services for pediatric patients. 

Throughout her career, Del Mundo achieved several recognitions and awards. She received the Blessed Teresa of Calcutta Award, and was also the first Filipino woman to be named the National Scientist.

On August 6, 2011, Del Mundo passed away due to cardiac arrest. She was buried at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. Though she is no longer with us, her groundbreaking work and enduring legacy continue to inspire and shape the Philippines’ healthcare system. 


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Meet the notable personalities from Quezon City whose remarkable achievements and exceptional dedication to their crafts have brought honor to the city. 

National Scientist of the Philippines: Dr. Fe Villanueva del Mundo