Philippines Mourns the Passing of Sr. Eva Fidela Maamo, Renowned Surgeon and Missionary
The religious community across the Philippines is enveloped in deep sorrow following the death of Sr. Eva Fidela Maamo, a celebrated surgeon, devoted missionary, and recipient of the prestigious 1997 Ramon Magsaysay Award. Her boundless kindness and unwavering love profoundly impacted countless individuals through her extensive missionary efforts in underserved and remote indigenous communities. She passed away at the age of 85.
A Legacy of Selfless Service and Compassion
Our Lady of Peace Hospital, an institution she founded, released a heartfelt statement on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, honoring her memory. "A life so beautifully lived in service to the poor and those in need deserves to be beautifully remembered. May she rest in peace," the hospital expressed. The Ramon Magsaysay Award Foundation (RMAF), which recognizes exceptional achievements across Asia, described Sr. Eva as "a tireless servant of the poor."
Originating from Liloan in Southern Leyte, Eastern Visayas, Sr. Eva established the Foundation of Our Lady of Peace Mission, Inc. in 1986. Her organization spearheaded numerous charitable initiatives, including:
- Providing free health clinics and medical-surgical missions
- Organizing sustainable livelihood programs
- Offering shelter to street children and abused women
- Feeding malnourished children in vulnerable areas
RMAF highlighted that her medical missions mobilized volunteer doctors, nurses, and dentists to treat tens of thousands of patients in far-flung communities entirely free of charge. "Diminutive in stature but immense in spirit, she led not by authority but by example. Her volunteers pressed on in exhausting surgeries, they said, simply because Sister Eva kept going. Through a life wholly given to 'the least of His brethren,' she showed that compassion, made concrete and courageous, is itself a form of nation-building," the foundation added.
Enduring Dedication and Recognition
Grace Padaca, a former politician and journalist, shared personal reflections on Thursday, April 16, recalling her interactions with Sr. Eva at Ramon Magsaysay Award ceremonies. Padaca noted that despite age-related challenges like weakened eyesight and occasional repetition in stories over the past two years, Sr. Eva remained remarkably active. "She still traveled to Zambales to visit the Aeta communities she helped support. She even served as a speaker during a retreat in Holy Week. This means Sister Eva did not suffer long before she passed on to be with the Lord. What a way to go, what a way to live," Padaca remarked, emphasizing Sr. Eva's over four decades of providing free medical care to the poor.
In 2006, the De La Salle Brothers of the Philippines honored Sr. Eva with the Lasallian Star of Faith Award, their highest accolade. They praised her as "a steadfast ally to the marginalized," providing essential healthcare and education to both indigenous and urban poor communities nationwide. "We celebrate her legacy of compassion and join her friends and family in prayer. May her life continue to inspire our shared mission of service," their statement concluded.
Final Arrangements
Sr. Eva's wake is scheduled from April 15 to 17 at the Foundation of Our Lady of Peace Mission, Inc. Office located on Coastal Road, Barangay San Dionisio, Parañaque City. Details regarding her interment will be announced at a later date.
