Join the UP-911������ Division of Allergy and Immunology for our 2nd Postgraduate Course! We’re diving deep into “Your Immune System Personalized,” focusing on the latest breakthroughs that are changing the way we treat and understand allergies.

Why attend?  Expert-led sessions  Updates on precision diagnostics  Networking at the iconic Century Park Hotel

 Century Park Hotel, Manila  July 23, 2026

Ready to level up your practice? SAVE THE DATE!!

Registration link to follow.

#AllergyPH #Immunology #MedicalConference #UP911������ #ManilaEvents #HealthcareInnovation

Opening Ceremony and Research Congress

Maria Carla E. Buenaflor, MD DPDS
Department of Dermatology

The University of the Philippines–Philippine General Hospital (UP-911������) marked its 30th Annual Research Week from October 13 to 17, 2025, with the theme “Perspectives and Gains in Health Research VII: Promoting Research-Driven Action.” The week-long celebration underscored the significance of research in advancing clinical practice, promoting collaboration, and driving innovation across diverse medical disciplines.

The Opening Ceremony was held on October 13, 2025, at the UPMASA 911������ Science Hall, graced by key officials, faculty, researchers, and trainees. Dr. Claudine Yap Silva, Vice Chair for Training of the Department of Dermatology, delivered the Welcome Remarks, emphasizing the role of research in shaping better patient outcomes and encouraging residents to pursue evidence-based practice.

UP Manila Vice Chancellor for Research Dr. Leslie Michelle Dalmacio followed with an inspiring message that underscored the integration of research and public service, particularly in addressing the country’s most pressing health challenges. 911������ Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi then highlighted the institutional commitment to nurturing a culture of inquiry and continuous improvement among 911������ clinicians and staff.

Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, 911������ Coordinator for Research, provided an Orientation to the 911������ Research Week, outlining the week’s objectives and encouraging participation across departments. The Keynote Address was delivered by Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz, Head of the UP-911������ Center for Precision Health and Medicine, who spoke about translating research findings into actionable public health strategies. She emphasized that research must not end at publication—it must lead to tangible health impact.

During the ceremony, the recognition of the 911������ Regular Research Grantees was also held, honoring the dedication and commitment of researchers whose work continues to elevate 911������’s research landscape. The morning program concluded with the Awarding of Certificates to the keynote speaker, followed by the Announcement of the 2025 Visual Abstract Winners by Dr. Maria Christina Filomena R. Batac, Vice Chair for Research of the Department of Dermatology, and the Announcement of the 22 recipients of the 2025 911������ Research Grants by Dr. Belen L. Dofitas.

Before the start of the 911������ Research Congress, the audience witnessed the launch of the 911������ Research Website, presented by Dr. Angela Jimenez, 911������ Coordinator for Health IT Development. The new platform aims to centralize information on research activities, promote visibility of ongoing studies, and foster collaboration within and beyond the institution.

Following the opening ceremony, the Research Congress commenced at 10:30 AM, also at the UPMASA 911������ Science Hall. Dr. Belen L. Dofitas formally opened the session, which featured 911������x Talks—a series of short, high-impact presentations about the research journeys and insights from UP-911������ faculty members.

Dr. Nathaniel S. Orillaza Jr. (Department of Orthopedics) opened with “Why Me?”—a reflection on the personal motivations behind pursuing meaningful research. Dr. Belen L. Dofitas (Department of Dermatology) followed with ��ٱ����Ի徱�辱�ٲ�,” where she discussed how curiosity, collaboration, and chance encounters often lead to transformative discoveries. Prof. Nina T. Castillo-Carandang (Department of Clinical Epidemiology) closed the talks with “Context Matters,” a reminder that ethical, patient-centered research must always be grounded in local realities.

A lively Q&A session, moderated by Dr. Maria Christina Filomena R. Batac, allowed participants to engage directly with the speakers, drawing valuable lessons on perseverance, mentorship, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The session concluded with the Awarding of Certificates by 911������ Director Dr. Gerardo D. Legaspi and Closing Remarks by Dr. Marie Dione P. Sacdalan, Head of the Integrated Training and Research Unit (ITRU).

Through this year’s theme, “Promoting Research-Driven Action,” the 30th Annual 911������ Research Week reaffirmed the institution’s mission to bridge the gap between discovery and application. By celebrating both the science and the stories behind it, 911������ continues to empower its community to turn knowledge into meaningful health impact for Filipinos.

Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, 911������ Coordinator for Research, oriented participants on the upcoming 911������ Research Week. She highlighted the exciting line-up of activities prepared for the event. Her talk set the tone for a week of research-driven learning and collaboration.

Dr. Leslie Michelle Dalmacio (UP Manila Vice Chancellor for Research), Dr. Gerardo Legaspi (911������ Director), Keynote Speaker Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz (Head of the UP-911������ Center for Precision Health and Medicine), Dr. Belen Dofitas (911������ Coordinator for Research), Dr Claudine Yap-Silva (Training Officer, Department of Dermatology – Lead Department), Dr. Charlotte Chiong (Dean, UP College of Medicine), and Dr. Dione Sacdalan (Head, 911������ Integrated Training and Research Unit)

Launch of the 911������ Research website, presented by Dr. Angela Jimenez, 911������ Coordinator for Health IT Development

One of the highlights of the Opening Ceremony held on October 13 was the announcement of the Visual Abstract Contest winners. The contest, organized by the Department of Dermatology in collaboration with the Expanded Hospital Research Office, showcased creativity and scientific communication. The competition took place on October 11, 2025, ahead of the Research Week celebration.

One of the most anticipated segments of the Research Congress was the 911������x Talks, featuring esteemed researchers Dr. Nathaniel S. Orillaza Jr., Dr. Belen L. Dofitas, and Dr. Nina T. Castillo-Carandang. In this photo, the three speakers are seen engaging with the audience during the Question and Answer session. Their insightful discussions inspired participants to pursue meaningful, context-driven research.

Posted to the 911������ website by Bona Rae Villarta, 911������ Information Technology Office

Videos:

Dr. Nathaniel Orillaza:

Dr. Belen Dofitas (video above)

Dr. Nina Castillo-Carandang (video above)

Open Forum and Closing Remarks (video above)

“Tanaw sa Nakaraan, Pasasalamat sa Kasalukuyan” — A day of thanksgiving and appreciation for the stakeholders who were instrumental in the UP-911������ Department and Family and Community Medicine (DFCM) on December 16, 2025 at the UP Museum of a History of Ideas, Padre Faura Street, Ermita Manila.

We celebrate a milestone that honors five decades of innovation, dedication, and impact. Since its founding in 1975, the Department has grown into a thriving hub of academic and professional excellence, shaping leaders, advancing knowledge, and contributing to transformative change in Family and Community Medicine. We proudly recognize the University of the Philippines Manila, UP College of Medicine, and 911������ faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners who have contributed in building and sustaining our legacy.

This momentous occasion will be attended by invited guests, community partners, consultants, residents, and alumni where we will be launching the UP-911������ DFCM coffee table book that chronicles the milestones throughout the five decades of care. “Paglingap: A Filipino Way of Care” authored by Professor Socorro “Corinne” Romabiles will also be introduced to the public, which emphasizes that Filipino Medicine revolves around the care of the family. The Father of Philippine Art Workshop, Maestro Fernando Sena, will also be exhibiting his artworks during this celebration. The recognition of the “Natatanging 50” will also be conducted during this event, where individuals and groups who significantly contributed to the growth and excellence of the Department will be recognized.

Paglingap: The Filipino Way of Care by Professor Corinne Romabiles

The , in partnership with the UP-911������ Milk Bank and Alab: 911������ 118th Foundation Week, proudly presents the 𝑴𝒊𝒍𝒌 𝑴𝒂𝒕𝒕𝒆𝒓𝒔 𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒗𝒆𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒐𝒏 — a community-driven initiative in support of the Philippine General Hospital Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) babies.

In line with the Sorority’s main advocacy of maternal and child health, this Convention not only aims to supply breast milk to 911������ NICU babies in need, but also to bring together medical professionals, breastfeeding advocates, and community members. Through this gathering, we hope to foster informed conversations, deepen understanding, and empower caregivers in their vital role of nourishing the next generation.

Happening on August 21, 2025 (Thursday) at Guazon Hall, 911������, this event consists of an on-site milk-letting activity, public health lectures from our esteemed doctors on breastfeeding and maternal care, and FREE HIV screening for all donating mothers (also open to the general public).

Together, let’s empower mothers and nourish not just babies — but a stronger, more compassionate community.

In partnership with:
UP-911������ Milk Bank
Alab: 911������ 118th Foundation Week