Nelcar Gadrinab, MD, FACS President, Philippine Medical Association in Chicago

By: Ryan Tejero

 

One of the pioneers in the Filipino American community is the Philippine Medical Association in Chicago (PMAC). For the longest time, PMAC served as a strongest community partner in helping our kababayans back home, and here in the US. Founded in March 27, 1961, PMAC was established by a group of Filipino physicians headed by Dr. Sunga in Chicago. Its purpose is to bring together the growing number of Filipino medical practitioners in Chicago. The group created a clear mission of organizing medical education programs so doctors can keep their licenses active; providing medical and other assistance to areas needed to maintain dignity and ideals, and promote customs, and traditions of the medical profession and Filipino culture. In 1986, PMAC started its Medical and Surgical Missions to the Philippines, which became their annual tradition to help our less fortunate kababayans in the Philippines. The only year that was missed was the Covid year. In 2025, the mission will be in Zamboanga City, the hometown of Dr. Nelcar’s wife, Dr. Rosemarie Climaco. Also, next year, PMAC will conduct a secondary mission for the very first in Zambales, which will benefit the hometown of another FilAmn community leader, Mrs. Jovi Siriani. PMAC has been actively pursuing multiple community outreach medical programs for our seniors through the years.

PMAC is well supported in the Chicago’s FilAm community. All of its initiatives and programs have always been funded by the group’s countless donors and friends, and their unwavering support and generosity had raised funds to promote and sustain PMAC efforts. PMAC’s major fund raising events include golf outings and the yearly gala anniversary ball.

Currently heading PMAC as its president is Dr. Nelcar Mallare Gadrinab. He was born in Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental but grew up in Bauang, La Union. He received his high school education while living in Vigan, Ilocos Sur. Dr. Nelcar completed his Pre-Med and Medical School from the prestigious University of Santo Thomas (UST). Following his internship and externship at V Luna General Hospital, he passed the ECFMG examination. In 1966, he migrated to the USA for a rotating internship at McKeesport Hospital in McKeesport, PA. He also completed general surgery for 2 years at Montefiore Hospital in Pittsburg, PA, finally in 1972, he completed his Residency in Urology at Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago, IL. After passing the FLEX examination, Dr. Nelcar then started his private practice in Urology in Chicago. He became a fellow with the American College of Surgeons, and a Board Certified in Urology, with both licenses to practice in Illinois and the Philippines. He retired in 2022 after almost 50 years of private practice in Urology, mainly at St. Bernard Hospital, Trinity Advocate Hospital and Roseland Hospital.

Outstanding in the medical field, Dr. Nelcar became president of the medical staff, chairman in surgery departments at various hospitals. He is currently enjoying retirement by giving back to the community as a leader and together with his wife, Dr. Rosemarie Climaco.

 

Drs. Rose and Nelcar Gadrinab

Group photo of the newly-inducted officers of the PMAC.