Beyond the Stethoscope:

Saving Lives, Empowering Communities, Building a Mark

By Harryl Jay Ondo

As a lifelong learner, Doc Mark is grateful to JCI Cebu Inc. for providing opportunities to develop his leadership skills

Growing up in the suburban town of Liloan in northern Cebu, Doctor Mark Lourence Cuyos, or simply “Doc Mark,” had a childhood dream of becoming a doctor. Despite not coming from a family of medical professionals, he set his life’s goal of bringing pride in being the first physician in his family. Initially starting his medical journey as a Medical Technologist, he eventually pursued his dream of becoming a doctor at the University of Cebu. Amidst the pandemic, while doing his online medical clerkship and working as a clinical section head in a laboratory, Doc Mark stood against all odds, completing his medical degree and earning his license to practice his profession. He offers his medical services free of charge, especially to the less privileged.

Believing that there could still be more to saving lives within the four walls of the clinic, Doc Mark aspires to serve more people in the community. Invited by a fellow healthcare professional to JCI Cebu, he was captivated by the organization’s community and service-oriented aspects. After being immersed and trained at JCI Cebu, he participated in various projects and was eventually inducted as a Baby Jaycee.

Doc Mark’s advocacy revolves around providing quality healthcare, especially to underserved areas, and he wants to make healthcare accessible and available for all. He also has a passion for the arts and would pursue it if given the opportunity.

In addition to his medical profession and artistic inclinations, Doc Mark is passionate about animal welfare. His breakout project, FURever Homes, in partnership with the LGU and other NGOs, provided animal rehabilitation facilities, supplies, and antirabies vaccines to adopted dogs in Consolacion, Cebu. Recently, he also participated in Project LIFELINE, which offers legal aid and introductory life support sessions to residents in Talisay, Cebu.

To maintain a healthy balance between his profession and passion, Doc Mark keeps himself motivated by his core purpose as a doctor. When asked for his advice as a professional and servant leader, he suggests learning to prioritize, plan schedules, maintain a positive mindset, always see the bright side of things, cater to others’ opinions, and be open to compromises. As a lifelong learner, Doc Mark is grateful to JCI Cebu Inc. for providing opportunities to develop his leadership skills. He envisions JCI Cebu expanding, reaching more communities, and creating positive change.

Doc Mark’s advocacy revolves around providing quality healthcare, especially to underserved areas, and he wants to make healthcare accessible and available for all.