By Eva C. Visperas

 

IN the world of public service, it’s not every day you come across someone like Dr. Anna Ma. Teresa de Guzman — someone who combines expertise, compassion, and integrity in ways that leave an indelible mark on both her colleagues and the people she serves.

As the Provincial Health Officer of Pangasinan for many years, Doc Anna, as we fondly call her, was a steady and knowledgeable hand in managing the health concerns of the province, especially in the tumultuous years marked by the COVID-19 pandemic.

But alas, suddenly, at the opening of 2025, something happened unexpectedly that changed the leadership of the Provincial Health Office. She resigned or opted to retire early from her post. She had to, standing by her strong, unyielding principles.

I was surprised upon hearing this news. I had worked with her in so many health stories I had written. I would ask her questions anytime via phone interviews. And if she wasn’t available because of an ongoing meeting or medical mission, she would see to it that she’d get back later, even late at night once she got home.

In the Provincial Board’s Question Hours which I religiously attended, she was always ready to answer anything about health matters. She has left a significant void in the provincial government, and it is a loss not only for the local community but also for the media she so generously collaborated with over the years.

Doc Anna was more than just a news source — she was a trusted partner in communication. Whether it was providing timely updates on health trends, explaining medical jargon in simple terms, or giving interviews that were always thorough and transparent, Doc Anna really earned the admiration and respect of the media.

Serving four governors during her tenure — from former Gov. Victor Agbayani to the father-and-son ex-Governors Amado Espino Jr. and his namesake Amado Espino III, up to the present Governor Ramon Guico III — Doc Anna’s expertise and dedication to public health were undeniable. She wasn’t just a public servant; she was a pillar of support for the people. Her deep knowledge and steady demeanor made her a trusted figure in the provincial government, capable of addressing complex health issues while keeping the public informed and engaged.

When news broke that Doc Anna had resigned from her position, the reaction from the media was immediate and palpable. Many were disheartened by the news, this corner most especially. To put it simply, she was irreplaceable. No other PHO had ever managed to build the same rapport with the media, nor had any other provincial health official shown the same level of dedication, charisma, and professionalism.

Her resignation felt like a personal loss to many who had come to rely on her not only for expert insights but for the trustworthiness she embodied.

It’s a sad reality that often, individuals of such high integrity and competence are caught in the crossfires of politics. Doc Anna’s resignation, forced by circumstances that had little to do with her professional abilities, is a stark reminder of how politics can sometimes overshadow true public service. Yet, for those who had the privilege of working with her—whether in government, the media, or the community—Doc Anna’s legacy will be remembered not by the political reasons for her departure, but by the immeasurable impact she had during her time in office.

Pangasinan has lost a devoted and charismatic public servant, and the media has lost a reliable ally. In a time where expertise and integrity are sorely needed, her absence will undoubtedly be felt for years to come. The province of Pangasinan, the people, and the media all owe a debt of gratitude to Doc Anna — her contribution to public health and her unwavering professionalism will be sorely missed.

In the end, her story serves as a saddening reminder that some of the most effective and beloved public servants are not those who seek the spotlight but those who quietly and consistently do their work with honor and dedication. Doc Anna is one of those rare individuals, and Pangasinan is poorer with her departure from office.

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