Our Team - ANX Home Healthcare and Hospice Care

MEET THE TEAM

Thomas Rocas

Founder/CEO

Thomas Allandale Rocas III (RN, BSN, CWCN) has been in the health care field for over 25 years, with extensive experience in Advanced Wound Care, Acute Care and Home Healthcare Administration.

As the Founder/CEO of ANX Home Healthcare, he strongly believes in a holistic approach to health care, providing medical, spiritual and social support to patients with life-limiting illnesses. He regularly organizes international medical missions, providing medical expertise and supplies to patients in remote provinces in the Philippines. Thomas is a key contributor to local, state and federal legislation affecting the healthcare field, and he continues to stay on top of the latest medical trends, best practices for providing comprehensive home health care.

Lisa Mangubat

Co-Founder/COO

Lisa Mangubat (RN, BSN) is our Co-Founder/COO and brings with her over 25 years of extensive experience in the healthcare industry.

Lisa began her career as an Internal Medicine Clinical Nurse at La Mirada Medical Center in Southern California, performing comprehensive patients assessments, assistance in diagnosing clinical ailments, and designing treatment plans in partnerships with doctors. In 1996, Lisa transitioned to the Home Healthcare industry building human resources, and service infrastructure of Staffing Home Care in South San Francisco. At ANX Home Healthcare, Lisa continues to establish and monitor standards for home healthcare while coordinating all direct and indirect patient services, and ensuring proper maintenance of clinical records in compliance with local,state,and federal regulations.

Gerald Murphy, MD

Medical Director

Dr. Gerald Murphy is the Medical Director for ANX Home Healthcare, providing guidance on clinical care and risk management policies and procedures.

Dr. Murphy is a board-certified physician specializing in internal medicine and geriatrics. He received his medical degree from Saint Louis University School of Medicine and has been in practice for more than 21 years. He also sits on the ANX Home Healthcare Board of Directors.

Christina Dunham

Chief Marketing Officer

Christina has over two decades of experience developing acquisition, activation, and engagement strategies for start-ups, small businesses, and Fortune 500 companies.

As CMO, she leads strategic initiatives and oversees all growth/expansion efforts for home health, palliative, and hospice divisions. Prior to joining ANX full-time, she served as consultant developing the company’s branding and web strategy. Previously, Christina directed marketing communications at HealthTap and developed customer marketing campaigns at fitmob and Sterling HSA. She holds a BS in Marketing and International Business from Salisbury University, Maryland and an MBA from CalState Hayward, attending her last semester of graduate studies at the Academy of National Economy in Moscow, Russia.

Mary Grace Rodriguez

Head of People Operations

As Head of People Operations, Mary Grace Rodriguez is responsible for talent acquisition, retention, and compliance for our home health and hospice divisions, serving as an advisor for both employer and employee.

Mary Grace started her career in the home care space. And even after acquiring a law degree, she chose to return to the healthcare industry, drawn to its impact on seniors. She values ANX's warm yet professional culture. Her proudest achievement is mastering US Employment Laws through sheer determination. She says, “Because of my desire to learn it, I was able to navigate through it through research, certificate programs, and support from colleagues in the industry.” Outside of work, she enjoys travel, staycations, Netflix, and diverse music. Mary Grace's dedication to HR in healthcare reflects her passion for making a difference and navigating challenges with determination.

Karen Yong

Executive Leadership Consultant

Nationally recognized for excellence in home health by the APTA, Karen Yong (PT) is the Executive Leadership Consultant for ANX Home Healthcare, providing strategic counsel and management insight.

Formerly the Director of Rehab, she led recruitment, hiring, and training, shaping ANX’s clinical excellence. With 30+ years as a clinician, faculty instructor, guest lecturer, and consultant, she brings deep industry expertise and a commitment to quality care. Proud to be part of a company that upholds integrity, values, and culture, she says, “I applaud ANX’s continuous efforts in partnering with the community and improving care delivery.” Karen earned her MA in Physical Therapy from Stanford University and her BA in Physical Education from UC Berkeley.

ANX Home Healthcare

Our Clinical Leadership Team at ANX Home Healthcare is composed of seasoned veterans and leading healthcare industry experts.

Samantha Abalde

Assistant Director of Patient Care Services

Samantha Abalde, RN, BSN, PHN is a clinical leader dedicated to strengthening care teams and delivering exceptional home healthcare for patients.

Samantha Abalde, RN, BSN, PHN serves as Assistant Director of Patient Care Services, where she supports clinical operations and strengthens care delivery across the organization. She previously served as an RN Case Manager and Clinical Manager, leading multidisciplinary teams while coordinating patient care with hospitals and physicians across the San Francisco territory. Samantha brings a strong background in utilization management, compliance, and workflow improvement. Earlier in her career, she held nursing leadership roles in post-acute care, overseeing infection prevention programs, staff development, and clinical operations. Known for her collaborative leadership style, Samantha focuses on building strong teams and ensuring patients receive coordinated, high-quality care at home.

Lena Yin

Interim Rehab Services Manager

Lena Yin brings over 25 years of experience as a physical therapist in her role as Assistant Rehab Supervisor.

With a Master's in Physical Therapy from Chapman University, Lena's career spans a wealth of healthcare settings including acute care, subacute, acute rehabilitation, outpatient, and home health, with a focus on adult/geriatric care. Certified as a vestibular rehabilitation specialist, she has also excelled as a case manager in acute hospitals and in home health. Born in Taiwan and raised in the SF Bay Area, Lena has a special interest in aiding seniors to age successfully. Outside work, she enjoys spending time with her family, managing her real estate portfolio, and indulging in flower arranging and gardening.

Stephen Leonard

Rehab Clinical Manager

Stephen Leonard manages rehabilitation services for San Mateo/Coastside patients, ensuring effective patient care and compliance with healthcare regulations.

Stephen is driven with ANX core value- Convey Passion and Compassion for it doesn’t only help him provide the best patient care but applies it in his own personal growth. His favorite mantra is, “Having fun and embracing joy, humor, and humility can lift one's spirit and hopefully convey these qualities to your clients and their families who maybe faced with difficult challenges in their lives.” Outside of work he enjoys going scuba diving, snorkeling, brewing beer, and assisting children, as well as young adults with developmental challenges including autism.

Randell Varilla, RN, MSN, CWCN

Senior Clinical Program Manager

Randell D. Varilla (RN,MSN,CWCN) is Senior Clinical Program Manager, specializing in providing education, training our clinicians, case managers, and community partners.

Prior to joining our company he served as a Clinical Nurse Staff for the Dr. John Crew Center for Advanced Wound Care at Seton Medical Center. Randell is a Certified Wound Care Nurse, holds a Master's of Science in Nursing, Bachelors of Science in Kinesiology, and Human Movement Studies from San Francisco State University. He abides by the ANX’s value of “Deliver WOW philosophy to everyone in every situation,” saying “I want to make a stamp with what I do in my profession”

Aaron Yanga, RN

RN Clinical Manager

As RN Clinical Manager, Aaron Yanga (RN), provides oversight, guidance, and support for our nursing team.

Aaron is excited to work with ANX because of the room for growth and development, along with the mentorship of the experienced staff. He connects to the ANX core value of “Think like a beginner and be humble” because it is in line with both his professional and personal goals. Aaron prides himself in accomplishing his journey of moving from New Jersey to California and entering a new field of nursing all while being promoted and recognized within the company. Aaron is guided by the quote, “To whom much is given, much is required”.

Marlu Raquinio

RN Clinical Manager

Marlu Raquinio (RN) leads the ANX Home Healthcare South Bay clinical team as RN Clinical Manager.

Don Deocareza, LVN

Intake Manager

Donraymond Deocareza steps into his new role as Intake Manager at ANX Home Healthcare after eight years of dedicated service with the organization.

A licensed vocational nurse, Don brings deep experience, consistency, and a strong understanding of patient care operations. In his new role, Don leads the intake team and oversees referrals, helping ensure each patient is matched with the right clinician for their needs. His leadership helps create a smoother start to care and improves access for patients and families. Known for his steady leadership and commitment to excellence, Don continues to make a meaningful impact across the organization. At ANX, Don’s work helps strengthen seamless care coordination from the very first referral.

Benelyn Raci

Intake and Utility Management Supervisor

Benelyn Raci plays an essential role at ANX Home Healthcare by helping ensure a smooth transition of care, from receiving referrals to endorsing patients for Start of Care.

Her focus on efficiency and coordination helps patients begin services without delays. Before joining ANX, Benelyn worked as an Administrative Assistant at an engineering company, supporting contractors with quotations and billing through SAP. As a BSN graduate, returning to healthcare through ANX has been a meaningful milestone in her career. Benelyn values kindness, integrity, humor, and humility. She believes success comes from balancing strong character with joy. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with family and watching short films.

Amanda Colvin, LVN

LVN Intake Nurse

Amanda Colvin joins ANX Home Healthcare as an LVN Intake Nurse, where she plays a key role in ensuring every patient receives the right care from the start.

Amanda carefully reviews referrals, coordinates information between providers, and provides a seamless handoff to the care team-helping patients experience a smooth and timely transition into home healthcare. Guided by curiosity about the human body and its ability to heal, Amanda is dedicated to thoughtful, compassionate care. She connects deeply with ANX’s values: “Listen first. Communicate with honesty, openness, and transparency” and “Think like a beginner and be humble.” Outside of work, Amanda enjoys reading, anime, and true crime podcasts. Her favorite quote, “You do not yield,” reflects her perseverance and heart for helping others.

We Are Hiring Top Talent

If you are looking for a rewarding career with flexible work hours, continued training and opportunities for advancement in the booming Home Healthcare and Hospice Care fields, contact us today!

VIEW CURRENT OPENINGS

Business Development

Carlo Paez

Director of Sales Operations

Carlo joined the ANX Account Management Team in 2013 and has been instrumental in developing deep relationships with key accounts in San Mateo County.

As Sales Operations Director, he continues to grow his territory through a variety of marketing and community relationships efforts, including working with physicians groups, skilled nursing facilities, and local hospitals. He has first-hand experience in providing top-quality patient care and understands the importance of constant communication with patients and their families. Carlo currently manages accounts in San Francisco and San Mateo counties, including several large hospital and healthcare organizations. He is inspired by the quote “Never let the odds keep you from doing what you know in your heart you were meant to do.”

Leticia Estrada

Area Sales Manager

Leticia Estrada, Area Sales Manager, leads the South Bay team, managing healthcare partnerships across Santa Clara County.

As team captain, Leticia Estrada leads and motivates the South Bay sales team to exceed referral goals. With extensive experience, including her role as Senior Hospice Liaison at a national agency, she brings a deep passion for exceptional care and service. Leticia is committed to fostering strong partnerships with hospitals, physicians, and healthcare facilities, ensuring seamless care coordination. Dedicated to ANX’s “WOW” philosophy, she strives to create meaningful experiences for patients and colleagues, always putting compassion at the forefront. Her leadership and expertise drive the team’s success in delivering high-quality home healthcare to the Santa Clara County community.

Faye Gerona

Senior Account Executive

Faye Gerona oversees our San Mateo County business development efforts as Senior Account Executive for ANX Home Healthcare.

Faye brings extensive experience in community outreach and relationship building, including her previous work as a Community Liaison with Redwood Hospice. She is grateful to return to ANX, a place she describes as one big family. Faye believes in doing what is right, being kind, and treating every patient, partner, and colleague like family. Her approach reflects her deep commitment to passion, compassion, and human-centered care. A dedicated single mother, Faye raised four children who are now thriving in their own professions. Outside of work, she enjoys dancing and attends Zumba classes several times a week. Guided by the belief that every human in need presents an opportunity for kindness, Faye finds purpose in making a meaningful difference every day.

Zen Willkom

Account Executive

Zenen Willkom serves as Account Executive for ANX Hospice Care, proudly spearheading efforts in the East Bay area.

She brings valuable experience from her previous role as an Account Executive with AccentCare Home Health. Drawn to ANX’s supportive and collaborative culture, Zenen is excited to contribute to a team that lives its mission every day. She deeply connects with the ANX core values “Listen first. Communicate with honesty, openness, and transparency.” and “Deliver WOW philosophy to everyone in every situation,” as they reflect her own principles of authenticity and compassion. A proud self-made professional, Zenen believes that perseverance and integrity are the cornerstones of meaningful success. Outside of ANX, Zen enjoys singing, dancing, and biking. Guided by the belief that “Service to humanity is the best work of life,” she finds purpose in making a positive impact wherever she goes.

Christian Mark Francisco

Account Executive

Christian Mark Francisco serves as an Account Executive at ANX Home Healthcare, driving business development efforts in San Francisco County.

In his role, he focuses on cultivating strong relationships with referral sources and ensuring every patient experiences a seamless admissions process. Christian takes great care in gathering all necessary documentation to support high-quality, compassionate care—while building trust within the healthcare community. He is inspired by the positivity, teamwork, and purpose-driven culture at ANX Home Healthcare. Guided by the principles of listening first, communicating openly, and finding solutions through resourcefulness, Christian strives to make a meaningful impact every day. Outside of work, Christian’s proudest role is being a father. He enjoys sharing life lessons with his son, spending time outdoors, and staying active through sports.

Bryan Fabian Saguil

Account Executive

Bryan Fabian Saguil serves as Account Executive for ANX Home Healthcare, driving community partnerships in Santa Clara County.

Prior to joining ANX, Bryan worked at a national hospice agency, where he gained valuable experience in patient support and outreach. Bryan is particularly excited about ANX’s culture and values the open communication and encouragement of creativity. The core values that resonate most with him are "Listen first. Communicate with honesty, openness, and transparency" and "Be curious and creative," reflecting his belief in transparency and innovative thinking. Outside of work, Bryan enjoys rock climbing, reading, and continuously learning new things. His passion for exploration and growth aligns perfectly with ANX’s dedication to excellence and service.

Angelo "Jelly" Balbuena

Account Executive

We’re excited to welcome Angelo “Jelly” Balbuena to the ANX Hospice Care San Francisco team, helping expand access to compassionate hospice care.

Jelly brings more than a decade of healthcare sales and operations experience across the San Francisco Bay Area, with a strong focus on home health, hospice, and senior care services. Trained as a nurse, she combines clinical insight with relationship-driven business development to support patients, families, and care teams. Throughout her career, Jelly has partnered closely with hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, assisted living communities, physicians, and case managers to coordinate referrals and expand access to quality care. Known for her collaborative approach and strong community presence, she is dedicated to building trusted relationships and helping patients transition smoothly to the right level of supportive care.

Grace Fernandez

Marketing Lead

Grace Fernandez, Marketing Assistant, works closely with the CMO to develop sales and marketing campaigns that drive business growth.

Besides managing the ANX marketing and content calendar, Grace supports the business development team by assisting with patient outreach efforts, aiding in loop-back calls and direct mail campaigns. She also plays a crucial role in tracking and reporting all marketing activities in our CRM. With a commitment to excellence, Grace takes on other projects as assigned, demonstrating her dedication to contributing to the company’s growth and success.

Shella Castillo

Biz Dev Account Assistant

Shella Castillo supports the ANX team as a Business Development Assistant, helping keep daily operations organized through administrative support.

Before joining ANX, Shella worked at iQor in the Philippines. She was excited to step outside of her comfort zone, learn new skills, and continue growing professionally while enjoying the balance of working from home. Shella values honest communication, kindness, and building genuine relationships. She takes pride in supporting her family and helping her siblings pursue their education. Outside of work, she enjoys playing badminton and listening to music. Her favorite reminder: great things take time.

Administrative

Cherwin Carpio

Project Manager

Cherwin is the Administrative Manager responsible for overseeing the operations workflow for ANX Home Healthcare.

With almost a decade experience in the medical field with the background in clinical operations and patient services, she also supports the Business Development and Human Resources teams in managing special projects and events in the company. The ANX core value that best describes Cherwin is “Convey passion and Compassion.” She strongly believes that “Curiosity, Creativity, Passion, and Compassion” are the forces that drive people to success and elevate them to greatness.

Nhi "Tina" Ly

Administrative Manager

With more than 10 years in the healthcare industry, Tina serves as the Administrative Manager for the San Jose branch.

Tina is responsible for coordinating all admissions, processing discharge papers, following up on physicians orders and plans of care, as well as managing clinician placement. Previously, she served as a Case Management Assistant for another healthcare company. For Tina, the greatest accomplishment is simply making someone else smile. "I really just enjoy giving people outstanding service." Perhaps it's no surprise that her favorite quote is by Albert Pike: "What we do for ourselves, dies with us. What we do for others, remains and is immortal."

Marissa Glick

UM Lead

Marissa leads utilization management with a focus on timely reviews, care alignment, and efficient workflows that support high-quality patient outcomes.

Marissa began her journey at ANX as an Administrative Assistant and has continued to grow within the organization. She values ANX’s culture, sharing, “Everybody here is so kind and treats you like family.” Guided by the belief to have fun and embrace joy, humor, and humility, Marissa brings a positive, grounded approach to her work. Outside of work, she enjoys being mom to Raelynn, wakeboarding, doing makeup, and spending time with her family.

Cristopher Pere

Medical Supplies and Medical Record Manager

Cris manages ordering, maintaining, and organizing all vital medical records and supplies for ANX.

On a daily basis, he coordinates with ANX clinicians to ensure that they have everything they need to provide high-quality patient care. He also oversees the maintenance of patient medical records, from uploading files to the appropriate charts to ensuring completeness of information. He has been with the ANX family since 2011 and looks forward to the being part of its future growth.

Clemencia "Chit" Cortezano

Executive Assistant to the CEO

Clemencia “Chit” R. Cortezano supports our CEO, providing organization and oversight for company initiatives and business process improvements.

Chit brings with her 20 years of business management and marketing experience, previously working as an executive for Bank of the Philippine Islands. Her favorite inspirational quote is from Pope Francis: "Do not get upset. Remain calm. Find a way to get over it. There is no need to be afraid of difficulties. We are capable of overcoming everything."

Irene Paez

Rehab Admin Lead

As the Rehab Admin Lead, Irene Paez provides essential administrative support to our rehab leadership team, ensuring smooth operations and efficiency for the entire rehab department.

Irene is excited to work with ANX because of the kind and caring people here and the knowledge that she will gain from working closely with everyone here. She is driven by ANX’s core value of “Listen first. Communicate with honesty, openness, and transparency” because she feels that this value is important to have in order to be successful and happy within your life. In her spare time, she loves to travel to different countries with her family, shopping, and watching sports. Her favorite inspirational quote: Life is a journey, make the most out of it.

Hospice

Dawn Gross, MD, PhD

Hospice Medical Director

Our Hospice Medical Director, Dawn Gross, MD, PhD, is uniquely qualified to lead a cultural revolution on end of life care.

Dawn holds a combined MD and PhD from Tufts University School of Medicine where she was trained as both physician and scientist. She completed her fellowship training at Stanford University and postdoctoral work at UCSF. As a highly acclaimed authority in hospice and palliative care, Dawn has served as Chair of the Department of Supportive Care Medicine and Clinical Professor of Hospice and Palliative Medicine at the City of Hope National Medical Center, hosted a call-in radio program called Dying to Talk, and has been featured in The New York Times as well as the journals Science, JAMA and the Annals of Internal Medicine. She also co-founded the public benefit corporation, Dyalogues, Inc. to empower everyone to advocate for themselves or others so that they can live their life fully to the end by having access to education, training, and direct support from experienced professionals. (www.dyalogues.com).

Lucille Faciane, RN

Administrator

As the Administrator of Hospice, Lucille Faciane (RN) brings a wealth of healthcare experience ranging from Neonatal to Hospice Care.

Lucille is passionate about creating quality end-of-life experiences for her patients and families. Prior to joining ANX, she served as Patient Care Administrator for a national hospice care provider for over a decade. At ANX, she brings wisdom and proper guidance to the team which helps provide better care for all our patients. During her free-time, Lucille loves entertainment. She enjoys watching Broadway musicals, attending concerts, and weekly trips to the movie theaters.

Nova Empeynado, RN, MSN, CHPN

Director of Hospice

Nova Empeynado, Director of Hospice Care, oversees clinical operations and spearheads the expansion of our hospice division.

Nova is a Certified Hospice and Palliative Nurse with more than 20 experience in the healthcare industry, ranging from senior living facilities, home-health, and hospice care. She became a nurse because she believes in caring with compassion one patient at a time. She was drawn to ANX because of the “family-oriented culture, the humility of people and their belief in simple acts of kindness.” Outside of work, she enjoys crafts, photography, and traveling. She is inspired by the words, “Be kinder than necessary because everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle.”

Sandy Trieu, MD

Hospice Physician

As the ANX Hospice Care Physician, Dr. Sandy Trieu oversees the hospice patient's care teams and plan of care.

Dr. Sandy Trieu specializes in Hospice & Palliative Medicine, Pain Medicine and Internal Medicine. She graduated with honors from Oregon Health Sciences University School Of Medicine in 2006.

Shelley Salpeter, MD

Hospice Physician

Dr. Shelley Salpeter, our Hospice Care Physician, brings extensive expertise to ANX Hospice Care, leading the management of hospice services across San Mateo and San Francisco counties.

Dr. Shelley Salpeter earned her MD from the University of California, San Francisco, and completed her residency at Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School. As a triple board-certified physician in Internal Medicine, Geriatrics, and Hospice and Palliative Medicine, Dr. Salpeter also served as a Clinical Professor of Medicine at Stanford University. Thrilled to join the ANX team, Dr. Salpeter is passionate about delivering patient-centered care with compassion and kindness. She finds fulfillment in supporting patients and families through their journeys. Outside of work, Dr. Salpeter enjoys traveling, hiking, and creating cherished memories with friends and family.

Abraham Alonzo

Spiritual & Bereavement Coordinator

Abraham Alonzo serves as the Spiritual & Bereavement Coordinator with 35 years of extensive pastoral, academic, hospital, and hospice experiences.

Prior to joining ANX Hospice Care, he served as Resident Chaplain of Kaiser Medical Center Vallejo, Vacaville Trauma Hospital, and Kaiser Hospice of Napa and Solano. He also served in parishes around the SF Bay Area, and was an ordained Priest for the Archdiocese of Zamboanga, playing different roles as School Director, Pastor in three parishes. A professor at the Jesuit University of Ateneo de Zamboanga, and Dean of Priests. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sacred Theology (STB), a Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL), Masters in Oriental Religions and Culture (MA-ORC). He also holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies (MTS). He has published articles and peer-reviewed theory papers on spiritual care.

Anna Tran

Office Admin Manager

Thi Diem Phuong “Anna” Tran is our Administrative Operations Manager responsible for overseeing the administrative workflow for the hospice division.

Prior to joining ANX, Anna served as the International Admissions and Marketing Officer for UCAM University in Murcia, Spain where she graduated with a degree Masters in Innovation and Tourism Marketing. After having lived all over the world (including Vietnam and Australia), she is thrilled to put down roots in the San Francisco Bay Area and work for ANX where she enjoys the “warm hearted environment.” She is inspired by the quote: “If you’re offered a seat on a rocket ship, don’t ask what seat. Just get on.”

We Are Hiring Top Talent

If you are looking for a rewarding career with flexible work hours, continued training and opportunities for advancement in the booming Home Healthcare and Hospice Care fields, contact us today!

VIEW CURRENT OPENINGS