Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photos by Erlyn May U. Pareja
The University of the Philippines College of Medicine (UPCM) celebrated its 120th anniversary with a flag-raising ceremony on December 2, 2024, at the Portico of the Henry Sy Sr. Hall in UP Manila. The event honored the College’s long-standing contributions to service, education, and research, which have played a significant role in shaping healthcare in the Philippines.
UPCM Dean Charlotte M. Chiong marked the importance of the day, sharing her joy in being with everyone that morning. “Napaka-espesyal po ang araw na ito dahil noong December 1, 1905, itinalaga ang pagkakatatag ng Kolehiyo ng Medisina,” she noted, highlighting the historic significance of the celebration. She emphasized that meaningful conversations have begun to achieve the College’s goals and dreams—not only for the upcoming year, but for many years to come, possibly for the next century.
UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee highlighted UPCM’s leadership in health education and policy development. “Ano nga ba ang pamana ng College of Medicine? Sa ilalim ng mahusay na pamumuno ng ating mga dekano at iba pang opisyal, inaasahan kong lalo pang magiging makabuluhan ang kontribusyon ng ating kolehiyo. Kami sa UP College of Medicine ay patuloy na maglilingkod nang may dangal at husay para sa bayan.”
He also announced new initiatives to support research and publication, ensuring that the College remains at the forefront of medical innovation. The Chancellor also emphasized the importance of faculty development and knowledge sharing as he shared that the Acta Medica Philippina has been recognized as a PubMed-indexed journal.
Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi, director of the Philippine General Hospital (PGH), spoke about the strong, long-standing partnership between PGH and UPCM. Reflecting on their shared history, he said, “Ang kolehiyo at PGH ay mga partners mula pa noong unang panahon. Maganda ang pagsasama ng direktor at ng dean. Marahil ito ang nagdulot ng maraming pagbabago at marami pang mga pagbabago sa darating na panahon. Excited po kami lahat na makiisa sa pagdiriwang na ito, at nais kong ipahayag ang buong suporta ng Philippine General Hospital sa inyo.”
Dr. Marita V. Tolentino-Reyes, former chancellor of UP Manila and former dean of UPCM, reflected on her personal journey as a student and administrator. She shared her admiration for the college’s long-standing role in advancing medical education, health research, and public health programs, particularly for underserved areas. Dr. Reyes recalled impactful moments, such as caring for a patient and witnessing profound love and dignity in their final moments. She also reminisced about the vibrant, inquisitive medical students she interacted with and the support of faculty during her time as dean. Emphasizing the values of integrity, empathy, and dedication to public health, she urged the next generation of healthcare professionals to continue the legacy of service and excellence.
“Hindi mapapantayan ang mga ambag ng UP College of Medicine sa healthcare ng Pilipinas,” Dr. Reyes said. “Sana ay marami din tayong maipapamana sa susunod na henerasyon. Sana ay maalala tayo na ipinagpatuloy natin ang pagpapaigting sa kalinangan at pakikiisang damdamin sa mga nangangailangan sa iyo, empathy, and culture. Sana ay maalala tayo na ginamit natin ang ating isip at puso sa pagkakatupad ng pangkalahatang kalusugan ng Filipino, universal health care. Mabuhay ang ating kolehiyo.”
In closing the program, Dr. Abner Chan noted that UPCM has played a crucial role during two significant crises—World War II and the COVID pandemic—standing strong in some of the most challenging times in history. He emphasized that the College has consistently been dedicated to shaping healthcare leaders, advancing research, and making a difference in countless lives. Despite all the challenges, UPCM has remained committed to serving the nation with honor and excellence. #
