When Ms. Lorelei Billano Piansay, 66 at the time, began struggling with blockages in her heart, even simple daily tasks became exhausting. Each day felt heavier and uncertainty shadowed every moment. In 2025, she became the first patient in Wester Visayas to successfully undergo Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL) at The Medical City Iloilo, a groundbreaking procedure designed to safely treat heavily calcified coronary arteries. Today, she is regaining her strength, taking back control of her life, and embracing each day with renewed energy. Her successful recovery is not only a personal triumph but also a milestone in advancing heart care in the region.
“Every patient’s heart is different, and our job is to provide the right tools and guidance for each individual, says Dr. Kristy Garganera-Tugbang, Interventional Cardiologist at TMC Iloilo. “With advanced diagnostics and innovative treatments, we can detect issues early, treat them effectively, and help patients regain their confidence and quality of life.”
Lorelei’s story comes at a crucial time, as ischemic heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in both the Philippines and Western Visayas. Behind these numbers are real people: parents, siblings, grandparents, hoping for more time and better health. In response to this urgent need, The Medical City Iloilo introduces “Heart Care 360: The New Era of Complete Cardiac Care in Western Visayas,” highlighting a fully integrated approach to cardiovascular care, from early detection and precise diagnosis to advanced intervention, recovery, and long-term prevention.
At the core of Heart Care 360 is accurate and comprehensive diagnostics. TMC Iloilo provides 2D echocardiography, stress testing, Holter monitoring, calcium score tests, and complete cardiac imaging, strengthened by two major innovations in the region. The hospital offers the most advanced Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS), a minimally invasive imaging technology used during coronary procedures to provide detailed, real-time images from inside the blood vessels, allowing cardiologists to assess blockages with greater precision. It is also home to the first-ever Cardiac MRI in Western Visayas. This non-invasive imaging modality delivers highly detailed images of the heart’s structure and function without surgery, enabling accurate evaluation of complex cardiac conditions.
For patients requiring intervention, The Medical City Iloilo offers coronary angiography and angioplasty, drug-coated balloon procedures, complex percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI), pacemaker implantation, and intensive cardiac care. The hospital is equipped with the most advanced Rotablator system in the region for treating heavily calcified arteries, alongside its milestone introduction of Intravascular Lithotripsy (IVL), expanding safe and effective options for high-risk and complex cases closer to home.
Recognizing the financial realities faced by many families, TMC Iloilo also emphasizes accessibility. Many cardiovascular procedures are already covered by PhilHealth, helping reduce out-of-pocket expenses and ease the financial burden of treatment. In particular, coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), commonly known as open heart surgery, is accredited under PhilHealth’s Z Benefit Packages, ensuring that even complex heart surgeries are more accessible to patients. By combining advanced technology with accessible care, the hospital ensures that quality heart treatment is within reach for more Ilonggos.
Beyond intervention, Heart Care 360 supports recovery and long-term prevention through structured cardiac rehabilitation, lifestyle counseling, risk factor management, and follow-up with trusted heart specialists. By emphasizing cardiac rehab, patients regain strength, improve heart health, and sustain a healthier future. Because complete heart care does not end after a procedure. It continues toward sustained wellness and a healthier future.
Through Heart Care 360, The Medical City Iloilo stands beside every Ilonggo heart. As the Heart Care Capital of Western Visayas, the hospital combines innovation, expertise, and compassion to ensure patients are empowered to move forward, reassured that in this new era of complete cardiac care, they are supported every step of the way.
