UPMASA Gives Generously to Boost Digital Resources in Medical Library

July 13, 2026

Members of the University of the Philippines College of Medicine Class of 1971, led by class representative Geraldine Gómez-Pinder (second from left), formally present their donation checks to Chancellor Michael Tee during the UP Manila Alumni Association (UPMASA) Alumni Business Luncheon held recently in San Francisco, California in July 2026. Also present in the photo are Eleanor Caños, Linnie Aragonés, Angelina Alvarez, Edgar Alvarez, Ruben Arafiles, and Naia Arafiles.

The University of the Philippines College of Medicine Class of 1971 donated a total of US$85,423.03 through their classmates based in the United States, along with ₱642,000 contributed by their Philippine-based classmates, to fund the purchase of computers for the EMERALDS Room at the new UP Manila Library. This donation is part of their enduring legacy to their alma mater, the UP College of Medicine, a tradition of giving that began during their Silver Jubilee celebration in 1996.

The Electronic Medical Research and Library Database System or Emeralds II Project is designed to help keep the university abreast with digital technology, particularly in creating a computerized database facility with data storage capacity for electronic medical journals. It is also envisioned to establish a network link between the Medical Library Local-area network (LAN) and the campus wide-area network (WAN). The Medical Library is located on the third floor of the Main Library and Learning Commons.

To date, the third phase of the construction of the medical library (for engineering works) commenced in May 2025 and is expected to end on July 19, 2026. Meanwhile, the fourth phase (interior fit-out) began in June 2026 and is expected to be completed by January 2027.

*Chancellor Michael Tee greets the members of Class 1971 during the Alumni Business Luncheon in July 2026.*

The Electronic Medical Research and Library Database System or Emeralds II Project is Class 1971’s gift to UPCM during their Silver jubilee in 1996. The Medical Library is located on the third floor of the Main Library and Learning Commons.

The third phase of the construction of the medical library (for engineering works) commenced in May 2025 and is expected to end on July 19, 2026. Meanwhile, the fourth phase (interior fit-out) began in June 2026 and is expected to be completed by January 2027.