05/07/2026
Doc Maria Solito , BCI President YR 2024-2025, pride of Barangay Club of Indiana
I was born in Cebu City as the oldest of five siblings.
At six, my family moved to Manila, where I completed my studies, including Medical School at the University of Santo Tomas. I discovered my passion for Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation and pursued my Residency in the U.S., aiming to subspecialize in Pediatric Rehabilitation.
I met my husband, Leo, a Geriatrician, in New York, and we later moved to Indiana for Fellowship training. We decided to stay and raise our five kids in Indiana, where we found a vibrant Filipino community, The Barangay Club of Indiana, which became our "home away from home."
We got involved in BCI when our children participated in the Tinikling Children’s Dance Troupe. In 2010-2012, my husband became the President and it was during his term when the Philippine Consulate of Chicago began their Outreach Program here in Indianapolis. I handled the coordination of this program until the 2020 BCI President took over this task while I ramped up the organization’s social media being the elected PRO. In 2023, I got elected as the BCI President. During my term, we supported several organizations expanding our footprint in Indiana beyond the Indianapolis area, increased our Healthcare screenings and Diabetes Awareness having one of the highest risks for cardiovascular disease and diabetes, promoted more traditional Filipino festivals, and began the Pickleball tournaments.
Our kids embraced Filipino culture, learning Tinikling and singing Tagalog songs, while developing a deep respect for elders.
I once told my visa interviewer, "I became a doctor for the Filipinos!" But God had other plans. Today, I care for American heroes at the VA Medical Center. Many of my patients shared stories about their time in the Philippines, and some even retired there, bonding over a shared love for our people and food. They were thrilled to learn about the Philippine Center in Indy, and I couldn't help but feel connected to them.
I love the Filipino people—their warm smiles, kindness, and devotion to faith and family.
I was once welcomed by kind Filipinos in New York City when I first arrived, and when I asked how I could repay them, they simply said, "Pay it forward." My father gave me the same advice when I asked how I could repay his sacrifices. Now, I carry that lesson with me, hoping to inspire others to "pay it forward" too.
Several Filipinos are unable to afford healthcare and unfortunately there has also been a huge gap in care due to being statistically bundled under the Asian category. We had partnered with PTS Diagnostics who had been gracious enough to provide us with test kits (worth $100 each) that we were able to provide these tests for free to our community. We were able to assist some Filipinos who had recently moved to Indianapolis in finding them homes as well as jobs. We were also able to find caregivers for those who needed them. Our network has grown enabling us to practice our bayanihan culture here in Indy.
Maria Solito, M.D.
Philippine Ministry Coordinator, Intercultural Ministry of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis
Physiatrist / Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist
Clinical Professor, Indiana University PM&R Residency
*Photo taken from the website of Indiana University, School of Medicine
