Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photo by Luz D. Emano

The University of the Philippines Manila welcomed new leadership appointments in a formal oathtaking ceremony held on July 11, 2025, at the UP Manila Boardroom. The event was presided over by Chancellor Michael L. Tee.

Among those who took their oaths were Dr. Mac Ardy G. Gloria as Dean of the College of Pharmacy, Atty. Ruel B. Nario as Chief Legal Officer, and Dr. April B. Llaneta as Acting Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila.

Dr. Gloria will serve as Dean of the College of Pharmacy from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028. A seasoned educator, pharmacist, and researcher with expertise in public health and clinical epidemiology, he is currently an Associate Professor at the College. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Health Technology Assessment from Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand.

Atty. Ruel B. Nario was sworn in as Chief Legal Officer effective March 5, 2025. He will offer legal guidance and support to the university’s various units and initiatives.

Dr. April B. Llaneta was appointed Acting Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila, effective from May 5 to September 4, 2025. An Associate Professor and former chair of the UP PGH Department of Emergency Medicine, Dr. Llaneta brings extensive experience in disaster preparedness and emergency response. She is also the founding president of the newly established Outdoor Medicine Association of the Philippines, which advocates for emergency care education among outdoor sports enthusiasts, community responders, and other emergency care providers.