The UP Manila College of Public Health (CPH) held its Recognition Ceremony for its graduates on August 3, 2023 at the Fleur-de-lis Theater, St. Paul University Manila.

With the theme, “Empowering Minds and Strengthening Communities Toward a Culture of Public Health,” CPH Dean Fernando B. Garcia Jr. stated in his welcome address the importance of continuous learning, innovation, and pursuit of knowledge.

“In a time when health has become a global priority, it is essential to acknowledge and honor the efforts of our young graduates and the future of public health. This event goes beyond simply recognizing accomplishments. It is a celebration of the spirit of collaboration, compassion, and perseverance that embodies the values of our college,” he said.

The college awarded degrees to 279 public health practitioners composed of 81 BS Public Health (BSPH) graduates with 5 summa cum laude, 39 magna cum laude, and 33 cum laude among them. Also celebrated during the ceremony were the achievements of the following graduates: 2 in Master of Arts in Health Policy Studies (MAHPS), 9 in Master of Hospital Administration, 11 in Master of Occupational Health, 168 in Master of Public Health, and 8 in Master of Science in Public Health.

In her keynote speech, UP Manila Chancellor Carmencita D. Padilla, MAHPS alumna of CPH, reflected on her journey, recalling that she pursued the health policy studies program to address challenges in scaling the Newborn Screening program nationwide.

“More than ever, the country is in desperate need of public health workers, and it is my wish that most of you will pursue this track. Preventive medicine rather than curative medicine will benefit more our population. Health promotion and ensuring access to responsive healthcare services are what our country needs badly. If you choose to pursue medicine, I encourage you to hold public health close to your heart,” the chancellor stated.

Speaking on behalf of the BSPH graduates, summa cum laude graduate Lyder Kyle A. Dimaapi delivered a heartfelt speech using the “sablay” to reflect on the batch’s transformative journey.

“Dahil sa UP, naging mas matapang, mas mabuti, at mas makatao ako. Because of UP, I was able to touch other people’s lives. Sa UP ko natutunan kung paano ko mahalin ang Pilipinas at kapwa kong Pilipino… Let us wear our sablay with pride and dignity,” said Dimaapi.

Samuel Christian C. Ong delivered his message on behalf of the MPH graduates, expressing his unwavering faith in the potential of the Class of 2023 to create positive change in the healthcare landscape.

“Today is not just the end of our efforts to get that diploma with marks; more importantly, it is a milestone in our journey to becoming positive change agents in communities… Let us go forth and take our part to improve the health of every Filipino. Tuloy ang laban para sa bayan!”

I Charmaine Lingdas