Text by Charmaine A. Lingdas
Photos by Sarah Hazel Moces S. Pulumbarit
The University of the Philippines Manila Ugnayan ng Pahinungod held its recognition ceremony on September 25, 2025, as part of its 32nd founding anniversary.
With the theme “Diwa at Paglilingkod: Pasasalamat at Pagpapatuloy,” the event paid tribute to volunteers, partner organizations, and program advisers for their invaluable service and commitment to public service.
Among those honored were faculty members, staff, and external partners who have consistently contributed to Ugnayan ng Pahinungod’s mission of serving underserved communities. Certificates of appreciation were awarded to Dr. Kimberly Joyce Flores, Dr. Maria Lilibeth Sia Su, Mary Ann Espos, Sajid Hairal, Dr. Sharon Ignacio, Dr. Frances Ann Carlos, Dr. Patrick Tiglao, Myrna Abaincia, Julius Rabang, Maria Joycelyn Deanon, Pilar Ortega, and representatives from the UPM Department of Behavioral Sciences, UPM Learning Resource Center, Childhope Philippines, and the Philippine General Hospital Department of Rehabilitation Medicine.
Dr. Eric Talens was recognized for his 18 years of dedicated leadership as Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila. He was lauded as a pillar of the program whose vision and service inspired countless volunteers. In the program, Dr. Talens emphasized that volunteering is about “serving the underserved,” noting that Pahinungod continues to thrive because of the collective effort of its volunteers and partners.
The event also marked the formal introduction of Dr. April Llaneta as the new Director of Ugnayan ng Pahinungod Manila. A longtime volunteer herself, Dr. Llaneta reflected on her beginnings as a medical student with the program and expressed her commitment to continue Pahinungod’s mission. “This is more than work; it has become a part of my life as a professional and as an individual,” she said.
In addition, Dr. B. Januario Antonio Veloso Jr., chair of the Philippine General Hospital Blood Bank announced a new volunteer-driven program to support the hospital’s blood donor center. Volunteers—composed of students, nurses, and physicians—will assist in donor screening, form reviews, and initial contact with donors. This initiative addresses the growing demand for safe blood products and strengthens PGH’s capacity to deliver lifesaving transfusions. “Volunteers will play an indispensable role in enhancing the donor experience and ensuring reliable blood supply for patients,” Dr. Veloso said.
Professor Ervina Espina, Pahinungod System Associate Director, closed the program with a message on the transformative power of volunteerism. She reminded the audience that volunteering not only serves communities but also shapes the values and compassion of those who give their time and effort. “Ang pagiging volunteer ng Pahinungod ay hindi lamang paglilingkod sa komunidad, kundi paghubog ng values, compassion, at integridad,” she said, rallying everyone to continue the spirit of service.#
Read more:
