Passing the Baton: A Tribute to Dr. Elizabeth Paz-Pacheco [Editor-in-Chief, Journal of the ASEAN Federation of Endocrine Societies (2010–2025)]

When she assumed the role of Editor-in-Chief in 2010, JAFES was still finding its footing. JAFES was non–peer-reviewed, irregular in publication, and largelyunseen beyond its immediate circles. What followed under her leadership was not merely improvement, but transformation.

With clarity of purpose and unwavering commitment to scientific integrity, Dr. Paz-Pacheco led the journal toward becoming a fully peer-reviewed publication, establishing regular biannual issues, and building a sustainable editorial process supported by an Open Journal Systems platform. These were not just operational milestones; they were foundational steps in redefining the journal’s identity and credibility.

Perhaps most significantly, JAFES achieved indexing in major international databases: including PubMed, PubMed Central, Scopus, Web of Science, the WHO Western Pacific Region Index Medicus, and the Directory of Open Access Journals. These accomplishments are not easily won; they are the result of consistent editorial discipline, rigorous standards, and a deep respect for the scientific enterprise.

But beyond metrics and milestones lies a more enduring legacy. Dr. Paz-Pacheco cultivated a culture of excellence, one that valued not only quality research, but also mentorship, regional collaboration, and the elevation of Southeast Asian voices in global endocrinology. She transformed JAFES into a platform where local scholarship could stand confidently alongside international work.

Her leadership reminds us that journals are not merely repositories of knowledge, but rather, communities shaped by the values of those who guide them.

As she steps down from her role as Editor-in-Chief and passes the baton to Dr. Cecilia Jimeno, we do not simply mark the end of a tenure. We recognize the lasting imprint of her vision, her discipline, and her dedication. On behalf of the endocrine community, we extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Elizabeth Paz-Pacheco, for re-establishing not just a journal, but building a legacy.