Date: February 19-23, 2023

Location: Virac, Catanduanes

In an inspiring showcase of resilience and commitment, the University of the Philippines Medical Alumni Society in America (UPMASA) collaborated with the UP Manila Ugnayan ng Pahinungod-Health Missions Program, the Local Government Unit of Virac, and the Provincial Government Unit of Catanduanes for an impactful Medical, Dental, and Surgical Mission from February 19 to 23, 2023.

The mission, initially scheduled to commence on February 19, faced an unexpected challenge as adverse weather conditions led to the cancellation of the team’s flight. Undeterred by this setback and cognizant of the urgent medical needs of the community, the combined UPMASA and Pahinungod team made a remarkable decision. Opting for a 14-hour bus journey and a RORO ride, the team arrived safely on the morning of February 20, 2023, at Eastern Bicol Medical Center. Their resilience not only defied the challenges posed by nature but also demonstrated an unwavering dedication to their mission.

Under the guidance of UPMASA Mission Chair, Dr. Anita Ortega-Jongco, and Mission Consultant, Dr. Glenn Batiller, the medical, dental, and surgical team, led by UNP Director Dr. Eric SM. Talens, Program Coordinator Ms. Jovel V. Dacumos, and Assistant Coordinators Mr. Lester P. Merlas and Ms. Melanie G. Talento, embarked on a mission to address critical healthcare needs in the region.

The team comprised an array of skilled professionals and volunteers, including Dr. Joanne Karen Aguinaldo, Dr. Jean Arevalo, Dr. Jay Ian Argel, Dr. Mylene Basco-Tiamson, Dr. Phyllis Bengwayan, Dr. Orlino Bisquera, Ms. Lydia De Castro, Dr. Glaiza De Guzman, Dr. Raymond Joseph De Vera, Dr. Czarina Charmaine Diwa, Ms. Joan Garcines, Ms. Clair Generoso, Dr. Ria Edeliza Imperial, Dr. Jesse Jerus Gabrieli Joson, Dr. Rey Benjamin Joson, Dr. Reynaldo Joson, Mr. Patrick Gerald Leviste, Dr. Julie Ann Lopez, Dr. Carlo Angelo Manalang, Dr. Michael Ryan Manera, Dr. Marian Kimberly Claire Maniulit, Mr. Reynaldo Rubio, Dr. Maria Lilibeth Sia Su, Dr. Fei Ranielle Swinton, Dr. Venjune Tansiongco, Ms. Jennifer Torres, Dr. Clarissa Velayo, Dr. Cherlaine Ventenilla, and Dr. Antonio Nemesio Yap.

Acknowledging the substantial contributions and participation of the Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila staff, Eastern Bicol Medical Center Heads and staff, Ms. Mary Ann Espos, NPK Medical Trading Inc., and the UP-PGH Departments and Units (ORSA, OPSWAB, Office of the Director, Fiscals Office, PGH Mole Lab, Department of Surgery, Department of Anesthesiology, Department of Nursing Services), the mission’s success was a collective effort.

Over the extended three-day mission period, the team tirelessly served the community, providing medical attention to 306 Adult Medical cases, 107 Pediatrics Medical cases, 440 Dental cases (including Extraction, Prophylaxis, and Fillings), 130 Minor Surgeries, and 49 Major Surgeries (comprising Gynecological, General Surgery, Pediatric Surgery, ENT Cases, and Plastic Surgery Cases). Additionally, 115 patients received Ultrasound/Diagnostics services.