Ramon Sison

Biography

Born and raised in a small town in the Philippines, Ramon showed dancing and musical talents at an early age. His parents, Florentina and Salustiano Sison, conservative landowners with substantial landholdings, encouraged him to become a doctor but discouraged him from the uncertainties of pursuing a musical or showbiz career. He followed his parents' advice. However, he could not refuse when offered a role in a movie and later opportunities to play the piano and act in radio and television programs while attending the University of the Philippines pre-med and medical school in Manila. After obtaining his medical degree in 1955 he went to Georgetown University for post-doctoral specialization. He practiced medicine in the mid-West for nine years where he played piano in a jazz band with medical colleagues in Springfield, Illinois. During those years he also played double bass with the conservatory symphony of MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Illinois. Shortly after movi...