Cebu doctor dies due to COVID-19, three days after losing wife

Three days after losing his wife, Dr. Dennis Ramon Tudtud, an oncologist from Cebu, died on Monday, according to a report by Cedric Castillo on “24 Oras.”

Both Ramon and wife, Helen, a pathologist, succumbed to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Their daughter, Deborah, mourned the passing of her parents, who have been together for four decades.

“Trying to be strong. I think my brother is more level-headed than me. Of the two, I’m the more emotional one. In reality, I’m scared,” she said.

She added her father was very passionate about his job and was selfless.

“Sometimes he would waive off his doctor’s fee, especially if (the patients) couldn’t afford it,” Deborah said.

She also described her parents’ love story was unconditional.

“My dad tries to show too much affection for my mom in public and my mom would cringe. They really loved each other. My dad was a big fan of doing grand gestures to my mom,” she said.

“My dad is also very friendly but my mom was over-the-top friendly. She can befriend anyone. All the security guards probably know her because she knows them. She finds a way to get to know who they are.”

As a message for those who have lost their loved ones due to COVID-19, Deborah said, “you’re not alone.”

“If possible, try to talk to someone. I think it hurts more if you keep it inside,” she added.

She also paid tribute to all the health care workers, who are in the frontline of the battle against COVID-19.

“What they do is more than just a job, it’s more than a career and I agree that they are heroes.”

President Rodrigo Duterte on Monday honored anew the country’s frontliners, saying they were fortunate to die in the line of duty.

“I assure you that your efforts will be rewarded. Your heroism will not be forgotten. Saludo kami sa inyo,” Duterte said.

The Philippines has so far recorded a total of 2,311 cases of COVID-19 including 96 fatalities and 50 recoveries. —Ma. Angelica Garcia/LDF, GMA News