Filipino Doctor Achieves Rare Double Top 5 in Nursing and Physician Licensure Exams
In the demanding field of healthcare, excellence is not merely an aspiration but a fundamental expectation. For Dr. Jorel Franco Antone Tangpuz, a dedicated medical professional from the Philippines, this pursuit of excellence has transcended routine standards, becoming a profound personal calling that has led to an extraordinary academic achievement.
A Remarkable Academic Feat in Philippine Medicine
Dr. Tangpuz first captured national attention in 2019 when he secured a spot in the Top 5 of the Nursing Licensure Examination, showcasing his early prowess in the health sciences. Demonstrating unwavering commitment, he repeated this impressive performance six years later by earning another Top 5 finish in the 2025 Physician Licensure Examination. This rare accomplishment places him among an elite group of Filipino health professionals who have excelled in two of the country's most rigorous national board exams, a testament to his exceptional dedication and intellectual capability.
Reflecting on this dual success, Tangpuz expressed heartfelt gratitude, stating, "It was truly unexpected, but I’m very grateful and blessed" upon learning the results. His journey underscores the potential for sustained excellence across different medical disciplines.
Discipline and Consistency: Keys to Academic Success
A graduate of Cebu Normal University with a degree in nursing, Tangpuz attributes his achievements to a foundation built on discipline and consistency. He developed effective study systems early in his academic career, mastering the art of managing vast volumes of scientific material while maintaining routines that fostered long-term focus and retention.
He emphasized the importance of establishing robust habits, noting, "It was very important for me to establish the right study and lifestyle habits. One of them was getting enough sleep. Eight hours is very important for me." This holistic approach to well-being has been crucial in navigating the intense demands of both nursing and medical education.
Balancing Academics with Personal Well-being
Beyond the rigorous academic schedule, Tangpuz highlighted the significance of maintaining a healthy balance to manage stress and preserve mental clarity. He actively engages in hobbies such as biking, running, and reading, which serve as vital outlets during the pressures of medical school.
"It’s very important to have hobbies outside of my field of work," he explained. "Physical activities and recreational reading help me reset." Despite the heavy reading load associated with medical training, he intentionally carves out time to explore non-fiction and self-development literature, including favorites like Cal Newport's "Slow Productivity," allowing him to step away from technical material while continuing to learn and grow personally.
Navigating Challenges and Embracing the Essence of Medicine
The most challenging phase of his journey, according to Tangpuz, occurred during his third year of medical school, when clinical rotations intensified and academic pressures mounted. Long hours and patient-facing responsibilities tested his endurance and reshaped his perspective on healthcare.
This transition from classroom learning to bedside care fundamentally altered his understanding of medicine, moving beyond the prestige of a white coat to emphasize presence, empathy, and resilience. He articulated this shift, saying, "Medicine isn’t just about knowledge. It’s about being there for patients when they need you most."
A Journey Defined by Service and Humility
For Dr. Tangpuz, the path through two demanding professions has not been defined solely by rankings or titles, but by the discipline to endure, the humility to learn, and the commitment to serve. His story serves as an inspiring example for aspiring healthcare professionals in the Philippines and beyond, illustrating that true excellence in medicine blends academic rigor with compassionate patient care and personal well-being.
