Text by Ehcel S. Hurna

Photo by Joseph A. Bautista

The research staff of the College of Medicine was awarded by their unit heads during the Research Appreciation Night.

As a culmination to the 20th Science and Technology Week, a celebration night dedicated to the staff and employees of various colleges of the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila who worked on research was held on Nov. 22, 2024, Henry Sy Sr. Hall Building. 

The recognition rites started with a roll call of outstanding research support staff of UP Manila colleges and institutions, who were personally introduced by their superiors and unit heads.

Dr. Meredith del Pilar-Labarda of the School of Health Sciences Palo campus shared an inspirational message on the importance of selfless service to the Filipino community, especially the poor, marginalized, and underserved. 

“My love for people, for community superseded ‘yung mga iba ko pang pangarap…Our personal experiences make us who we are, and I believe, ang mga ginagawa natin ngayon, it becomes more meaningful because of what we have experienced personally. It will make sense sa araw-araw na ginagawa natin,” Dr. Labarda shared.

Dr. Labarda also highlighted the contribution of the unsung heroes who are behind the success of every research conducted.

“‘Yung mga nasa likod pero actually, sila ‘yung nasa front. If you think that your job is just to support, actually it makes a lot of meaning sa mga ginagawa ng university, whether research or public service,” she said.#