MAY 2015 AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF PHILIPPINE MEDICAL ASSOCIATION VOLUME XXIV NO. 3

PMA HOLDS In this issue: th 108 CONFAB The OWL@PMA 2

Editorial 6 The Philippine Medical Association be discussed in the Scientific Session #2 th will hold its 108 Annual Convention and entitled “Options for at-risk adults”. Scientific As I See It 8 Scientific Sessions on May 19-22, 2015 at the Session #3 entitled “Comparative effective Marriott Grand Ballroom in Newport City CPG – local data outcome” will tackle local vs The Vice President’s Complex, Pasay City. foreign CPG apprehensions re 2014 editorial Corner 10 on Cardio Vascular Disease management. Atty. Alexander A. Padilla, National Treasurer’s PhilHealth President & Chief Executive Session #4 dubbed as “Must know, Report 12 Officer, is the keynote speaker during the must comply” will tackle PhilHealth, BIR, Opening Ceremonies with Dr. Janette Loreto DOH, PRC and Ethics issues. Regional News 15-24 -Garin, DOH Secretary, as guest of honor. General Assembly will be held on APMA 24 With “One PMA, One Health, One May 21. Dr. Jose Rizal Lecture and Awards Life” as scientific session theme, the PMA- and PMA Awarding Ceremonies are slated on PMA-APPA Story 26 CME Commission headed by Dr. Ramon F. May 22. Abarquez, has introduced a major innovation On Higher Ground 27 for the scientific sessions. Instead of having Induction of the 2015-2016 PMA small breakout groups to conduct National officers, PMA Board of Governors, simultaneous symposia there will only be a and Component Society presidents will be total of four sessions for the whole duration of held on May 22, 2015 during the the convention with panelists from different Convention‟s Closing Ceremonies with DOH specialty divisions discussing the topics. Each Secretary Garin as the guest of honor and session will have a “take home message” inducting officer of the 2015-2016 PMA making the session an “Ask, Learn, Share” President. activity. 108th PMA Annual convention Scientific Session #1, entitled Organizing Committee is headed by Dr. “Parents not pre-determined, yet offsprings Realiza G. Henson, PMA Governor for risk-prone” will tackle what, in an apparently Quezon City Region, as Overall Chair with healthy maternal characteristics, have PMA President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag prognostic influence on fetal programing and as Honorary Chair, Dr. Albert C. Guevarra as poor offspring outcomes of birth defects and Co-chair, PMA Secretary General Dr. would there be any growing-up management Marianne O. Dobles as Convention Secretary, implication. Dr. Maria Corazon S. Maglaya as Convention Assistant Secretary, and PMA National Will Lifestyle Modification prevent Treasurer Dr. Benito P. Atienza as fatal diseases, and if so, how? This issue will Convention Treasurer.

be discussed in the Scientific Session #2 entitled “Options for at-risk adults”. Scientific 

Page 2 The Physician The OWL@PMA Online Webbed Learning @ Partnerships for Medical Advancement

Maria Minerva P. Calimag, MD, MSc, PhD, FPBA, FPSECP PRESIDENT, Philippine Medical Association, Inc

“Today with the emergence of the information age, the strength of a country is based on knowledge. National greatness will arise not from our national resources or our factories, but from our people—people with new ideas and skill,” Michael Milken

Continuing Professional De- 5) be an essential component of pro- Association of Philippine Medical Col- velopment (CPD) is defined as the fessional and personal life, never an leges and the Professional Regulation education of physicians following optional extra. Commission, All licensed physicians completion of formal training. CPD is in the Philippines must participate in the acquisition of knowledge, experi- Filed in the Senate under recognized Continuing Professional ence and skills, as well as, the devel- Committee Report 95 submitted by Development activities in which they opment of personal qualities. It in- the Committee on Civil Service and demonstrate their commitment to volves both the acquisition of new Government Reorganization and the continued competent performance in skills, to broaden competence, and Committee on Finance, is Senate Bill a framework that is fair, relevant, the enhancement of existing skills to No. 2581 entitled, “AN ACT MAN- inclusive, transferable, and formative. keep abreast of evolving knowledge. DATING AND STRENGTHENING With the ASEAN Integration and the Among physicians, CPD consists of THE CONTINUING PROFES- requirements posed by the National any educational activity which helps to SIONAL DEVELOPMENT PRO- Equivalency Framework looming in maintain, develop or increase knowl- GRAM FOR ALL REGULATED the horizon, there is a need for 1) a edge, problem-solving, technical skills PROFESSIONS, CREATING CON- means to provide virtual and remote or professional performance stan- TINUING PROFESSIONAL DEVEL- opportunities for acquiring CPD cred- dards. Keeping up-to-date enables OPMENT COUNCIL, AND AP- its; as well as, 2) a means to docu- them to work legally and effectively PROPRIATING FUNDS THERE- ment them. all with the goal that they can provide FORE, AND FOR OTHER PUR- better health care redounding to pa- POSES”. As President of the Philip- tient safety. CPD includes 'formal' pine Medical Association and a activities, e.g. courses, conferences The Philippine CPD Council known advocate for Technology Inte- and workshops, as well as self- of Medicine is comprised of the gration in Medical Education and directed activities such as preceptor- tripartite representation from the Training, I initiated the OWL@PMA ship and self-determined learning. Philippine Medical Association, the Program for Continuing Professional According to the Chartered Institute Development of Physicians. of Personnel and Development OWL@PMATM is an acro- (CIPD) (Marchington. M. and Wil- nym that stands for Online kinson, 2006), CPD should be: 1) Webbed Learning @ continuous - professionals should al- Partnerships for Medical Ad- ways be looking for ways to improve vancement. This will be performance; 2) the responsibility of MOOC site using Moodle, an the individual learner to own and Open Source Learning Man- manage; 3) driven by the learning agement System that will needs and development of the individ- feature Moodle Analytics. ual; 4) be evaluative rather than de- Physicians will be recom- scriptive of what has taken place; mended educational and Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 3

professional development tracks based Our Philosophy on their actual contexts. The intent is to provide an alternative platform for The OWL@PMA deploying learning materials via the online mode. Pre-tests and Post-tests Program is anchored on the will also be given to document learn- philosophy of heutagogy. ing from the online modules as well as Heutagogy is the study of from face-to-face encounters in self-determined learning Roundtable Conferences. (in contrast to self-directed learning in andragogy)… It Moreover, the OWL@PMA is also an attempt to chal- will feature a cloud-based portfolio lenge some ideas about assessment platform which will be a teaching and learning that virtual space for curating and archiv- still prevail in teacher centred learning Figure 1 http://bibblio.org/ ing of physician profile and evidences and the need for, as Bill Ford (1997) of learning from formal, informal and non-formal Continuing Professional eloquently puts it „knowledge sharing‟ Our Mission Development (CPD) encounters. rather than „knowledge hoarding‟. In CPD credits can be earned through this respect knowing how to learn is a  To cultivate partnership and the Online Modules and Roundtable fundamental skill that is developed in understand the educational needs of Conferences; Certificates from local heutagogy. It looks to the future that the Filipino physicians at the PMA. and international conferences, semi- moves at pace with innovation and the nars and workshops; research out- changing structure of communities  To deliver valuable medical educa- puts, creative works and outputs such and workplaces (Hase and Kenyon, tion programs that transform the edu- as infographics for health awareness 2000). cational experience and improve pa- advocacies, policy statements, posi- tient care. tion papers, lectures delivered etc. It recognizes that physicians The portfolio will provide the evalua- are not only lifelong learners but that  To utilize mobile technology in tor with the following information, they are engaged in learning for life. delivering innovative educational so- i.e., 1) a reflection of the physician as lutions to provide medical education They learn through consultation and a professional; 2) a record of his pro- anytime anywhere. collaboration, self-study, and through fessional development; 3) proof of his conferences and meetings, seminars performance on-the-job or in class; 4)  To bring together physicians, what he has accomplished (i.e., tangi- and workshops. Our goal is to create medical organizations, and other ble artifacts/evidence); 5) paper-, an alternative virtual platform that medical education stakeholders into computer-, or web-based evidence of will elevate the educational experi- one online community that fosters having learned new skills. ence of physicians by measuring their professional, peer-to-peer discussion learning and engaging them at their The portfolio within the and collaboration. own pace and convenience. It hinges OWL@PMA will be both a product and a process portfolio. A product on Mobile e-Learning as an enabler of Medical organizations and portfolio demonstrates mastery of a change. hospital training departments, can use learning task or a set of learning ob- the OWL@PMA to deliver online jectives and contains the best works of Our Vision educational programs that will help the physician, while a process portfo- their members provide the best possi- lio documents the stages of learning • To be the online CPD provider ble care to their patients. In addition, and provides a progressive record of platform that delivers valuable OWL@PMA through its various edu- the physicians‟ professional growth medical education to and enables cational partners can provide solu- over time. All physicians shall simply professional collaboration among tions to managing challenging cases by curate or record all his continuing Filipino physicians in partnership consulting and collaborating with col- professional development activities with healthcare professionals else- leagues from within their own and (face-to-face and online) to be cred- where in the rest of the world across different specialties. ited with the corresponding CPD units. continued on page 4...

Page 4 The Physician

It can be a venue to share and discuss content… they will learn how to use videos, presentations, articles and the latest techniques, cutting-edge information technology (ICT) to opti- other multimedia content, plus quiz- research data, and best practices on a mize learning, a competency that zes and certificates; reinforce learning secure, professional platform. forms part of the Practice-based objectives to and measure learning of Learning and Improvement Standards the participants; provide course or- The holistic approach of the of the Accreditation Council for ganizers with feedback on partici- OWL@PMA Program integrates the Graduate Medical Education pant‟s knowledge base and learning, modules from different partners, as (ACGME) for training in the United time spent on the course, item analy- well as modules on critical thinking, States. sis for quizzes, and other statistics; leadership and management. As our evaluate the effectiveness of educa- members go through the modules The OWL@PMA Program tional programs. they will learn more than just medical will deliver Continuing Education, knowledge through the medical Training and Development through

THE OWL@PMA PARTNERS:

Figure 2 http://onlineaceprogram.com/jhuace/ Figure 3 http:// The Academy of Continuous Education at Johns umedonline.com Hopkins through Merck Sharpe and Dome

Figure 5 www.doh.gov.ph Department of Health through HHRDB through Dr. Pretchell Tolentino, Medical Officer IV Figure 4 http://www.aehin.org/AboutUs.aspx Planning and Standards Division Asia eHealth Information Network through AeHIN Health Human Resource Development Bureau Chair, Dr. Alvin Marcelo Department of Health Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 5

Figure 6 https://mdpie.com MDPie through Word Consulting

References

1. Marchington. M. and Wilkinson. (2006). A. Human Resource Man- agement at Work (People Manage- ment & Development) 3rd Edition London CIPD ISBN 1-84398-062-2

2. Hase, S. and Kenyon, C. (2000). From andragogy to heutagogy. Ul- tibase, RMIT. http:// ultibase.rmit.edu.au/Articles/ dec00/hase2.htm

3. Blaschke, L.M. (2012). Heutagogy Our Code of Ethics states: and lifelong learning: A review of heutagogical practice and self- “Colleagues, legitimate children who are minors, determined learning. International or even those who are not minors but mentally Review of Research in Open and incapacitated and dependent upon our colleague Distance Learning, 13(1), 56-71. for support, should be given the courtesy. Retrieved from:http:// However, this shall not apply to plastic or cosmetic www.irrodl.org/index.php/ procedures unless the cosmetic service is for irrodl/article/view/1076/2113 Reconstructive” procedure for conditions resulting from diseases or accidents. In case of package deals, professional fees included in said package shall be waived.” Page 6 The Physician

the gears may get stuck and time becomes inaccurate.

The PMA is our Rolex in the making. Right now, we are on that tipping point just like Ro- lex when it was on its way to glory and prestige. That's good because we are almost there. But we must continue to strive to get to the next level. Just like the TIME DOESN'T STAND brands out there like Patek Phil- owners, we need to work hard lipe, Tag Heuer, Cartier, STILL AT THE PMA to get there. Breitling, IWC, Longines, Offi-

There is an advertisement of a cine Panerai, Tissot, and Tudor, to name a few. And work hard the PMA has. very famous and luxurious Since Day 1, the strategic im- watch, Rolex that says, But the Rolex is the most popu- peratives imposed by the PMA president have been put into “Why this watch? lar brand or the brand of choice. It is what we aspire for. It is motion, as in institutionalizing our mission and vision, enhanc- This watch is a witness. To something we want, something we endeavor to wear- to put on ing our relevance among our words that moved nations. our wrist. members, promoting quality

medical education, promo-ting It has dared men faster, further. Rolex wasn't that popular be- the PMA policy and legislative

fore. It started with humble be- agenda, and elevating the PMA Worn by luminaries, visionaries, ginnings in 1905. The owners in the local and international champions. faced a major obstacle and fierce scene.

criticism but they worked hard This watch is an icon of Impos- to bring it where it is today. To make it work, just like the sible Achievements. Now, when one thinks of a high gears and instruments of a

quality expensive luxury watch, Rolex, we all need to work hand It doesn’t just tell time. It tells one thinks of Rolex. Nowadays, -in-hand, in perfect timing, in history.” we wear it not only to tell time unison. If we don't and some or as a fashion statement but gears conk out, turn slower than Everyone knows what a Rolex also as a sign of prestige. the rest, or worse, go the other is. If you are a sports enthusiast, way, the PMA won't be able to you probably saw the great play- The gears and instruments of function properly. We have pro- ers wear one during the last any Rolex work in consonance jects where you can help the Masters, Wimbledon, and the with each other. You also need PMA become the Rolex it Ryder Cup. It is found every- to use it. If you don't, time stops. should be! As the PMA President where - in the world of arts and The value of a Rolex always in- has always said, we should love sports like golf, tennis, racing, creases. Just like real estate, the our profession, love our fellow yachting, and equestrian. value has doubled in the last 5 physicians, and love the Philip- years. Every so often you have to pine Medical Association. We Why is that? The name alone it have cleaned. It needs fine- must promote strategies to in- speaks for itself. There are other tuning and polishing. Otherwise, crease membership, to increase Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 7 awareness of our organization, The PMA, in its over 111 years of Composed of surgeons, pediatri- and to protect our organization existence has proven its place in cians, obstetricians, cardiolo- from external conflict. history. It has stood the test of gists, endocrinologists, hema- time. True enough, the PMA tologists, primary care physi- From time to time, we also need has been witness to changes in cians, general practitioners, among others . to attend learning programs to Philippine History. It has also keep ourselves polished and up- been a major partner in the This association is an icon of to-date. Otherwise, we become progress of the Filipino Doctors Impossible Achievements. rusty and will not perform with and the patients whom they care precision and accuracy. The for. Indeed, it has brought about It isn’t just part of time. It makes PMA has all these learning pro- the best doctors in the country. history.” grams in place as in all compo- nent medical societies' round Soon, with your help and table discussions, Regional As- cooperation, the PMA will be  semblies, Specialty Societies' the Rolex that every member Conventions, hospital grand will be proud to wear. We are rounds, as well as in postgradu- almost there- just a couple more ate courses and International adjustments and tweaking- and Medical Conferences. This com- we're just right around the Start by doing what's ing PMA Annual Convention on corner. May 2015 will be the launching necessary; then do of the OWL@PMA, the PMA And soon we may borrow the what's possible; and Online Webbed Learning. Rolex ad and declare: suddenly you are There will be partnerships with “Why PMA? doing the impossible. multiple CME providers to give CME and CPD units. This association is a witness. To - Francis of Assisi

words that moved the country. Even as you read this, there is already that prestige that goes It has dared doctors faster, fur- with the PMA. It already speaks ther. for itself.

EDITORIAL BOARD PMA Journal The Physician Arnel A. Asiño, M.D.

Editor-in-Chief Maria Gina C. Nazareth, M.D. The Physician is an internal publication Marianne L. Ordoñez-Dobles, M.D. Ma. Josephine Y. Sunga, M.D. of the Philippine Medical Association instituted by the PMA Board of Maria Christina H. Ventura, M.D. Governors for the dissemination of Assistant Editor-in-Chief information to PMA Members. Its office Albert C. Guevarra, M.D. Contributing Editors is at the PMA Secretariat, North Avenue, Sol Veronica E. Bagaipo, M.D. Quezon City 1105; contact numbers: 9296366; 9262447, 09189234732, The Physician Erlinda G. De Los Reyes, M.D. 09178221357; fax number: 9296951;

Arnel A. Asiño, M.D. PMA Governors Email: Ma. Corazon S. Maglaya, M.D. Component Society Presidents [email protected], [email protected] Mechael Angelo G. Marasigan, M.D. Specialty Division Presidents Jose C. Montemayor Jr., M.D. website: Specialty Society Presidents www.philippinemedicalassociation.org Bayani P. Tecson, M.D. Affiliate Society Presidents Page 8 The Physician AS I SEE IT... status of members, petitions, and Track, Benefits Track, Provider unrecorded bank transactions in Engagement Track, and Provider By: Marianne L. Ordoñez-Dobles, M.D. preparation for the final voters list Payment Track. There were local PMA Secretary General released by the National Comelec and foreign speakers who tackled on February 15, 2015. There is still all the issues. The forum was in- more work to be done on the mem- tended to improve all services of the The end of November 2014, bership listing so the PMA may PhilHealth. had 2 important events that the have a more accurate database. The Secretary General has been able to update on the list of its members The regular Accreditation attend. The PhilHealth Accredita- is ongoing and component societies Committee of the Phil Health was tion meeting at the PHIC building may continuously update this, by held on February 5, 2015. A consul- and the workshop sponsored by the sending their list of new members, tative meeting of the PHIC was also PRC on a new Code of Ethics for inactive and active members, or held later in the afternoon with the Medical Professionals. reporting any deaths of its mem- Specialty Societies. Topics were the bers to the PMA membership staff. enhancement of the Accreditation The Philippine Medical Process, and the oversight of non Association has come up with 2 The grand Manila Hotel members of specialty societies at Volumes of the PMA Medical Jour- was an apt setting for the Joint the Philhealth Business Center, SM nal in compliance with the mini- Congress of the APPA (Association Aura. mum requirements for indexing of Philippine Physicians in Ame- with the Western Pacific Region rica) - PMA (Philippine Medical A follow up on PHIC Ac- Index Medicus (WPRIM). This is Association). The chair of the Joint creditation issues was made on a project of the WHO Western Pa- Congress was Dr. Alex Cueto who March 5, 2015 at the PhilHealth cific Regional Office. Initially, only is US based. The Opening Ceremo- Building, attended by the Secretary one volume of the journal is being nies was graced with the presence General. released annually. of the President of the Philippines, His Excellency, President Benigno Pampanga Medical Society Dr. Sixta Foronda, Presi- S. Aquino III, as the Keynote had their 3rd Annual Convention at dent of the Makati Medical Society, Speaker last January 8, 2015. On the the Otel Pampanga, at San Fer- successfully chaired the PMA 2nd day, January 9, 2015 were CME nando, Pampanga. The Secretary Christmas Party at the PMA Audi- lectures and a dialogue between the General together with Dr. Albert torium last December 13, 2014. APPA, PMA, and PRC with the Guevarra attended the Convention Beautiful Christmas decorations UP Chancelllor. Closing ceremonies with Dr. Minerva Calimag as the amidst a sea of flowers transformed was in the evening. There were keynote speaker. the auditorium to a colorful Christ- medical missions in Payatas, mas setting making everyone feel Quezon City and in Masbate. On March 7, 2015, the PMA the magic of the Holidays. Pashmi- Board of Governors held the 9th nas, and jackets, as well as cash The PMA Regional Assem- Board Meeting at the MU Manor were donated by doctors for the bly in Central Luzon under Gover- Hotel, Ozamis City followed by the residents of Palo, Leyte who were nor Raul Echipare was held at the PMA Regional Assembly for North- hardest hit by Typhoon Yolanda. Traveller's Hotel in Subic, Zam- Central Mindanao under Dr. Karen bales, with about 250 delegates Salomon. The PMA Membership from the region attending the Committee chaired by the Secretary assembly. A Quality Assurance Meet- General with members, Dr. Albert ing was held at the PHIC building Guevarra, Dr Agnes Calleja, Dr. The PhilHealth conducted which was attended by the Secre- Carlito Pajarillo, Dr. Rebecca Sison, the forum entitled PhilHealth @20: tary General. Dr Sierra Hernandez, together with 4 Tracks, I Goal, at the Century the indefatigable membership staff, Park Hotel, from February 3-4, On March 15, 2015, doctors had its hands full checking on the 2015. The 4 tracks are Membership all over the country trooped to their Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 9 respective polling places to vote for tackling the Album of Events and The Committee on Medical their chosen leaders for the fiscal Activities of the PMA for its fiscal Missions chaired by Dr. Ferdinand year 2015 to 2016. year for submission to the Profes- Cercenia will be drawing up imple- sional Regulations Commission as menting rules and guidelines in the The PMA held a Regional the Accredited Professional Organi- conduct of medical missions in the Assembly in Naga City, Camarines zation for the Medical Profession. country. Coordination by all NGOs, Sur, under Governor Dr. Rufino The month of April 2015 and the DILG, PRC, and other government Bartolabac at the Avenue Hotel. early part of May 2015 has been a entities with the local PMA compo- busy period for the PMA Secre- nent society will be a vital factor in On March 30, 2015, the tariat, PMA Officers and Commit- the conduct of the medical mis- PMA National Comelec, held the tee and Commission Chairmen and sions. canvassing of the election results. members preparing for the success Proclaimed winners were Dr. Mi- of the showcase of the PMA, the The PMA CME Commis- nerva Calimag as president, Dr. Annual Convention. The Commit- sion under Dr. Ramon Abarquez Karen Conol-Salomon as Vice tee on Publications handled the last has adopted the theme "One PMA, President, and Dr. Oscar Cabahug issue of the PMA Newsletter, The One Health, One Life" for its scien- as Treasurer. Physician, with all year end reports tific sessions in the 108th PMA An- of the Board of Governors, and re- nual Convention. Panel Discussions The PMA Annual Conven- ports of all National Officers. The from experts shall mark this year's tion Organizing Committee had 2nd volume of the PMA Journal convention, an innovative approach several meetings with sponsors, was also collated and prepared by to learning, drug companies, and other busi- this committee. Reports and the ness establishments to take care of needed materials for the General indeed! the financial aspect of the Conven- Assembly have also been prepared tion. The latter part of March 2015, by the General Assembly Chairman  had the IT Department of the PMA and Officers.

MARIA MINERVA P. CALIMAG, M.D. President

KAREN CONOL-SALOMON, M.D. OSCAR T. CABAHUG, M.D. Vice-President National Treasurer

JUDITH A. ALLAGA, M.D. VINCENT C. SANTOS, M.D. EDGAR A. LEGAZPI, M.D. Northeastern Luzon Central Tagalog Western Mindanao

JEISELA B. GAERLAN, M.D. ANNETTE M. MACAYAON, M.D. RUBEN O. GO, M.D. Northwestern Luzon Southern Tagalog Northen Mindanao

PAUL RUEL C. CAMINA, M.D. RAMON C. ECHANO JR., M.D. MARIA LOURDES G. MONTEVERDE, M.D. Central Luzon Bicol Southeastern Mindanao

LAKANDULA A. ELAYDA, M.D. FELMA R. DELA CRUZ, M.D. OSOP MP. ABBAS, M.D. Manila Western Visayas Northcentral Mindanao

ROSARIO B. CRUZ-DALIDA, M.D. FLORENCIA T. MIEL, M.D. BERNARDO T. MORA, JR., M.D. Quezon City Central Visayas Caraga

JOSE C. RABE, M.D. ELISA LAURENTE, M.D. Rizal Eastern Visayas Page 10 The Physician

“The PMA and the Philippine Services Industry Roadmap and Global Value Chains”

As Vice-president of the manageable and convenient for the Attempts at tracking the Philippine Medical Association, I have huge delegation expected from all the overall sector’s performance show that been given the privileged of sectors invited, the first day of the the medical and the health sector has representing our organization in some, conference was devoted for the grown from the usual average of P 7.92 if not most, of the activities organized manufacturing sector; while the billion in 1991-1995 to P17.31 billion in by the government and its agencies second day, was concentrated for the the period from 2006-2009 with an involved in the delivery of healthcare services sector which include annual average increase from 4.39 services. The article below are just some organizations from the Health and percent to 6.78 percent. The medical of the activities I consider significant to Wellness sector, Construction and and health sub-sector consistently the practice of our profession. expanded faster than the national Infrastructure, Tourism, IT-BPM, economy. ―Accordingly , the share of Transport and Logistics and Other The experience, I must say, had the sub-sector to the Philippine services. been enriching and the opportunity to National Income has steadily gone up view our role, as physicians, from just from 1.06% of the Gross Domestic During the break out sessions, providing medical care within our Product (GDP) in 1991-1995 to 1.27% the Health and Wellness Sector was country to being able to serve beyond during the period from 2001-2005. aptly participated in by the Department our shores and being part of a global village where our skills as professionals of Health (DOH); Department of Labor Two of the most important are tested and compared with those and Employment (DOLE), the Board of sources of growth in demand for health who share the same calling are now Investment (BOI), the Philippine Medical care and wellness services in the viewed from a broader perspective. This Association (PMA); the Philippine country are the relatively rapid is what the joint consultative conference Nurses Association (PNA); Philippine expansion in population and longevity. organized by the Philippine Chamber Association of Medical Technologist It is estimated that the number of of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), (PAMET), Philippine Dental Association residents in the country would go up to Department of Trade and Industry (DTI), (PDA), Health and Dietary Supplement 103 million to 111.8 million in 2015 to Board of Investments (BOI) and TESDA Association of the Philippines ; 2020 couple with a steady increase in held last February 26 to 27, 2015, more Philippine Council for the Accreditation life expectancy—the United Nations or less, aim to impart to all the various of Health Care Organizations (PCAHO); (2008) predicted average life industries invited to participate. Thus Philippine Retirement Authority (PRA), expectancy to increase from 71.7 years the joint consultative conference held at Retirement and Healthcare Coalition, in 2010 to 74 years in 2020. These the TESDA Complex in Taguig City Inc.; Association of DOH Retired translates to a lucrative market to all bear the theme: the “Philippine Employees (ADOHRE), National subsectors in the health and wellness Services Industry Roadmap and Federation of Health Information industry. The trend is also expected to Global Value Chains” In view, Management of the Philippines Inc. continue resulting to a steady increase however, of the limited space allowed (NFHIMPI) and others. I had the honor in the share of senior citizens to the for this article , I will try my best to total Philippine population from 7.8% in and privilege of being elected the make my report as briefly and concise 2015 to approximately 11.7 % in 2025 chairman and presiding officer of the as possible. (UN 2008). We are also aware that our consultative group for the Health Sector. strong presence is anchored on the fact During the workshop, the health To begin with, the consultative that we are the largest English-speaking industry leaders and their conference was organized with the aim country in Asia and our ―unique Filipino representatives were tasked to identify of achieving two main objectives: 1.) to brand of caring and compassion‖. the skills needed and those that are be able to identify the skills and services Moreover, the Philippines enjoyed ―a requirement by industry / sector and 2.) critical in their own respective fields of higher percentage of medical to be able to identify skills priority for concern in terms of shortage, new professionals compared to other development for the period 2015 to technologies, availability of resources countries (Vequist and Valdez 2008); 2017. To make the joint conference and emerging challenges. and ―the future supply of medical Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 11 professionals is reasonably assured by are moving towards a direction where in following government agencies and more than 313 health recognized the future some health facilities or professional organizations are educational institutions‖ (Jusay-Castillo hospitals in this corner of the world, will represented in the Commission namely: and Balane) throughout the be hiring the skills (from top The Department of Health (DOH) , The archipelago. management down to the lowest rank Philippine Health Insurance Corporation employees) from across national (Philhealth), the Philippine Council for Our physicians and other boundaries to promote and provide the Accreditation of Healthcare health providers can contribute in their “brand of service”. I have been Organization (PCAHO), the Philippine positioning the country as one of the hearing the word ―branding‖ more Hospital Association (PHA), the preferred destinations for retirees often now than before among hospital Philippine Medical Association (PMA), especially in Asia by honing skills that owners and other business Private Hospitals Association of the are expected to be in demand for the establishments. If all health facilities will Philippines Inc. (PHAPI) , Philippine next five to ten years. At present there hire the skills needed to remain College of Hospital Administrators are roughly 24,000 registered retirees competitive regardless as to where they (PCHA) and the Philippine Nurses residing in key locations in the NCR, come from then we can expect a market Association (PNA). One of the roles of Baguio City, Cebu and Davao, ―every that will become more and more the PMA in this body is to ensure that retiree corresponds to around 1.5 jobs competitive as trade in services become only physicians who are professionally locally‖ (Isip 2011). more liberal. The race towards global competent and with high ethical competitiveness and recognition by standards are allowed to practice in the What do we mean then by the nationally and and internationally hospitals or health facilities to be “Global Value Chain?”. Allow me to acclaimed accrediting bodies will accredited. simplify my explanation by pointing to a continually drive our health The last time the group met, the commonly used Iphone bearing the professionals and our institutions to present chairman and presiding officer, brand known to many as one that is reassess periodically our individual and Dr. Gerardo Bayugo mentioned about produced in a particular country. On collective performances as health the recommendations culled from the closer look however, its applications providers and in raising the bar of excellence in the health sector from workshop organized by the National processor and memory flash are made time to time. Hospital Quality Improvement of the from Korea; the connectivity is from the DOH regarding the HOSPITAL SCORE USA; its power management from Shifting to another, but closely CARD which will be the basis in Germany; the Interface & sensors are related, topic is the representation of rationalizing the budget and allocating from the USA, Japan and France; the the Philippine Medical Association in resources particularly government radio frequency is from Germany and the Hospital Accreditation hospitals. The ―Score Card‖ will be the USA; the display / camera are from Commission (HAC) where, again, I am based on five (5) key performance Korea, Japan, US or Taiwan depending privileged to be a member of. The indicators, as follows: 1.) Sanitation, on where it is assembled and the Commission was created and hygiene and waste management; 2.) battery is from Korea. In other words established as the National Accrediting Patient satisfaction 3.) Availability of an Iphone or cell phone may be Body pursuant to DOH Administrative Services and supplies 4.) Occupancy thought to be from a particular country Order No. 2013-0002 and Philhealth Rate 5.) Philhealth Utilization Rate. because it bears a name that is Resolution No. 786, s. 2005, Private hospitals have more elaborate associated with that country but it bears ―recognizing the Hospital Accreditation performance indicators but we will not some parts that are not necessarily from Commission (HAC) as the national discuss that anymore. that country. The “Chain” refer to accrediting body ―for all hospitals in the the ―stages‖: pre-production of a Philippines. The Commission aims to In closing, I would like to take service roadmap and demand, design, ensure the provisions of quality health this opportunity of congratulating my (purchasing) ; to production and to services in all government and private friend and successor , Dr. Karen Conol- post production (distribution, hospitals through continuous appraisal Salomon, ‖the Defender of the Lanao marketing of services). Most of the of the hospitals’ capabilities, processes Votes‖ during the 2014 PMA polls goods and services that are of value are and outcomes against a set of where by some twist of fate I was given made in various parts of the world and standards. The ―standards‖ referred to is another chance to serve the Philippine countries compete on their economic the “Enhanced Bench book Medical Association as Vice-president. roles within the value chain. Now given Standards” which is still being reviewed My best wishes , as well, to all the other the aforementioned example and and studied by Philhealth. The officers national officers and board of applying the same to the MRA or and members of the HAC were inducted governors for 2015 to 2016. Mutual Recognition Agreement as a on August 8, 2014 during its official condition in carrying out trade in launching at the Secretary Ona Hall of Mabuhay ang Nagkakaisang PMA! services among nations in the Asean the National Kidney and Transplant region, I am inclined to believe that we Institute (NKTI) in Quezon City. The  Page 12 The Physician

Comparative Financial Highlights PMA Funds March, 2014 March 31,2015 Association Funds

As of March 31,2015 the total fund balance of the Association is Php 125,008,236.29 deposited in top 10 banks of the country. More than fifty eight per- cent (58.9%) or Php 73,655,496 is Physi- cians' Mutual Aid Fund (Death, Disability and Legal) given to members in good standing. The Physician Trust fund is Php 17,893,596.66 or 14.29% of the total fund.

BPI - PMA Credit Card

Approved by the PMA BOG during the 11th Regular Board Meeting last April 11, 2015, Resolution # 220, Series 2014-2015. Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 13 Page 14 The Physician

BALIK PMA Bulilit and Teen As recommended by the Committee on Budget and Finance, this program Health Workers granted a 50% discount to members that settled their arrears on their Membership dues covering period of 2013 and earlier and full payment of the current fiscal Activities year. It was implemented from Oct 1, 2014 to March 31,2015. During the 11th 3rd and 4th Quarters BOG meeting, the board passed a resolution to extend the program till April 30,2015 as requested by most of the component societies.

COMPONENT COMPONENT REGION TOTAL REGION TOTAL SOCIETY SOCIETY Cagayan 37 Batangas 15 Norteastern Kalinga 2 Cavite 104 Luzon Nueva Vizcaya 3 Laguna 36 Quirino 1 Lipa City 4 Baguio-Benguet 17 Marinduque 4 General Santos Medical Society Officers Ilocos Norte 1 Southern Mindoro Occidental 7 during the Investiture and Graduation Ilocos Sur 3 Tagalog Oriental Mindoro 7 Ceremonies Northwestern La Union 6 Palawan 3 Luzon Mountain Province 4 Quezon 19 Pangasinan 23 Romblon 10 Southern Ilocos Sur 1 San Pablo City 4 Angeles City 7 Taal-Lemery 8 Bataan 7 Bicol Albay 12 Bulacan 16 Aklan 15 Central Nueva Ecija 53 Western Antique 1 Luzon Olongapo 5 Visayas Capiz 1 Lipa City Medical Society Bulilit Health Pampanga 13 Iloilo 3 Workers during the National Hand Tarlac 25 Central Bohol 37 Washing Day Zambales 1 Visayas Cebu 90 Manila 99 Eastern Visayas Samar 2 Quezon City 126 Basilan 1 Caloocan 37 Dapitan 2 Western Makati 53 Zamboanga City 44 Mindanao Marikina Valley 31 Zamboanga Del Norte 5 Central Pasay-Paranaque 24 Zamboanga Del Sur 3 Tagalog Northern San Juan 33 Misamis Oriental 76 Mindanao Valenzuela City 19 Cotabato City 14 Pampanga Medical Society Bulilit Health Antipolo City 8 Davao 8 Workers Graduation and Investiture, held at Sta. Rita Central Elementary School, Eastern Rizal 2 Southeastern Davao Del Norte 2 Lubao Pamapanga, March 25, 2015 Las Piñas 49 Mindanao General Santos City 2 Malabon-Navotas 2 North Cotabato 8 Mandaluyong City 4 South Cotabato 4 Rizal Muntinlupa City 8 Northcentral Iligan 4 Pasig City 19 Mindanao Lanao Del Sur 5 Rizal-Paranaque 24 Agusan Del Norte 1 Caraga Taguig City 5 Surigao Del Norte 2 Taytay-Angono-Cainta 14 GRAND TOTAL 1345

External auditor Component Society Accounting Report

The Luisa Caleon Auditing The PMA National Treasurer is requiring Zamboanga Del Sur Medical Society Firm was approved by the Board all Component Society Treasurers to submit Teen Health Force Graduation as the PMA External Auditor, their updated reports on remittances of PMA February 4, 2015 Resolution No. 199 series 2014- annual dues on or before May 31 for proper 2015. reconciliation, and correction. Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 15

REGIONAL NEWS By: Bayani B. Tecson, MD Another administrative year for our beloved association is fast ap- proaching. The Philippine Medical Association, just like in the past 111 years, has valiantly hurdled another year of challenges that we as united physicians can be truly proud of. HARRY GUERRERO SOLLER, MD Steadfast on our role as an important partner of our government in na- Governor, Northeastern Luzon Region tion building, we, as individual physicians immensely contributed into the success of this administrative year. We, as individual members of the Philip- My dear colleagues and pine Medical Association did our share in one way or another, in realizing friends! Foremost, thank you for the the change we want for our association and for our country. This collective pleasure of serving you as your gover- effort as ―One PMA‖ can be a source of pride and honor for all of us. nor for northeastern luzon and my con- gratulations to my fellow officers in the The future of our beloved association lies not only on our responsible national board and local component choice of our leaders, on their best judgments of what is the common good societies. for physicians, but most importantly, on the support and cooperation that And to pacify apprehensions we, as individual members will give to the association. I enjoin every mem- and misconceptions which you may ber of the association to continue supporting our leaders and our health have heard or received regarding the programs. I humbly request every member of the PMA to set aside partisan otherwise integrity and sanity of our political interests, elitist mentality of specialization, and personal biases and association in the PMA, with a duly con- just be a productive member of our association. Who we are, as individual stituted set of national officers and members is What the PMA is, as an organization. A highly revered, noble, board of governors, doing their best for and professional physician is a respectable, noble, and professional PMA. a better PMA, with our continued sup- Therefore, in everything we do and in everywhere we go, let us always be port and participation are testaments mindful that we are invariably representing and personifying the PMA as an that our organization is well and func- tional as ever. organization. Every PMA member is the face of the PMA. Wether we like it or not, we are the ambassador of goodwill of PMA in our communities. Our coming together this year- bespeaks of our support to our organi- Personally, I would like to extend my profound gratitude to all of you zation, the Philippine Medical Associa- for your unwavering support in the previous national election as vice presi- tion, a legacy, that, I believe, bonds us, dent, as a past Governor and member of the PMA Board, and now, as I more than just physicians, attested by serve the PMA as a member of the Editorial staff of our newsletter, The Phy- the wonderful participation of everyone in the local, regional and national levels! sician‖, as chairman of the Constitution and By-Laws and PMA Code, as an adviser to the Baguio - Benguet Medical Society Board, and as an ordinary Our colleague, Dr. Jose Rizal, member of our beloved association. It is with great pleasure and honor that who happened to be our national hero, I serve the PMA in whatever capacity / position I am appointed to. (or the other way around), then, laid his life for the love of country. Today, our I enjoin you to read through the reports of the Governors from the 3 association asks from each of us, not regions of North and Central Luzon for you to have a idea of what went our lives, not even a call-in-sick day, but the pleasure of being present, whenever through for the administrative year 2014 - 2015 in the discerning and needed, and with an exciting involve- watchful eyes of our honorable governors. ment. And I believe, my dear friends, PMA needs more of our vital presence, Mabuhay tayong lahat at Mabuhay ang pinakamamahal nating PMA! of our all-important participation, espe- cially in these trying times.  continued on page 16... Page 16 The Physician from page 15, Dr. Harry Soller... Aristotle once said, ―pleasure It is my hope that as we pass in the task puts perfection in the work.‖ the torch of responsibility, we must stay Things, which merit our atten- My dear colleagues, I urge all of you, to relevant and assist our mother society tion and badly need our support, our resound this calling, not as a burden, in any way possible. I remain your coming together as one, strong, and but with a welcoming pleasure, and servant. I will continue to serve you and united organization, are the integration renewed fervor, and look forward to, a the PMA. Dios ti Agngina. of all doctors, regardless of specializa- nobler, and stronger Philippine Medical tion or non-specialization, under the Association!  auspices of the Philippine Medical Asso- ciation, primarily, to cater for its mem- Mabuhay ang PMA!! Mabuhay bers’ concerns, (like our quest as the tayong lahat! Maraming Salamat po! RAUL ENCINA official accrediting, and self regulating ECHIPARE, MD body for physicians (much like the natu-  Governor, Central Luzon re of the Integrated Bar of the Philippi- Region nes for lawyers, wherein membership is FRANCISCO As I end my term of office on a pre-requisite to practice law); notably, BUSTAMANTE May 31,2015 I would like to thank my we are finalizing the draft of the PMA RANADA III, MD officers and members of Central Luzon integration bill under our committee on Governor, Northwestern Council for the support they have ex- legislation for consideration of the na- Luzon Region tended to me as PMA-Governor. tional board before eventually be filed in congress for its enactment into law; Time flies fast and in the blink I have governed the Central our Philhealth accreditation and com- of an eye, a term of service is about to Luzon Council and held quarterly meet- pensation issues; BIR issues that beset end and a new one is to begin in a ings taking important issues and con- us also worth mentioning, discussions month or so. Gone will be the regular cerns among members as well as PMA are already being made (and should be monthly board meetings which has National undertakings. encouraged in the local societies), re- seen a lot of interaction between the members of the board, trying their very garding the lifting of the VAT(value The most significant event that best to come up with every idea that added tax) on medical related services, happened in my region are the follow- could help the PMA as an organization. with the basic argument that we should ing: The last quarter has seen a show of not be taxed for our misery/sickness; solidarity by the members of the board more members’ benefits, especially li-  Successful holding of PMA Re- in spite of the differences of opinion for gional Assembly at Travelers Hotel, ving benefits, we can avail of, while, we a variety of issues. I am proud to be part are still alive, like improving the services Subic Freeport, Subic Zambales on of a team that has gone thru a difficult January 11, 2015 which was partici- of our health and lodging facilities at transition. The show of solidarity with pated by majority members of all our national headquarters, and other each attendance of monthly regional component societies of Tarlac, important aspects in the pursuit of our assemblies prove that we could rise Nueva Ecija, Pampanga, Angeles profession; the passage of a revised above the politics that has divided all of City, Bulacan, Bataan, Olongapo medical act that truly represent the us in one way or another. and Zambales and other Speciality concerns of the present times; the Societies of Central Luzon like PCS, strengthening of our 111 years organi- The strength of the PMA can POGS, PAFP, PCOM among others zation and charter-our noble heritage be attributed to a great extent on the and members of association of as Filipino physicians; and other issues, support of its component societies and Municipal Health Officers of the that haunt our medical practice, like the specialty societies. The Northwestern Philippines (AMHOP) Zambales ASEAN integration, wherein, practice of Luzon region has seen action with each chapter. medicine, as a service, is affected. component societies’ contribution in terms of the different projects that has  The reorganization and reactivation been submitted to the PMA. We have Fellow physicians, my dear of Aurora Medical Society to Cen- held recently a Regional Council Mee- colleagues, for so long we’ve taken for tral Luzon region through my ting hosted by the Pangasinan Medical efforts and meetings of some granted the affairs of our beloved PMA. Society and by all aspects I could say members. Their Society has been I believe, that today, more than ever, in that it was a very productive endeavor. inactive status for several years the history of our organization, everyo- We have been able to dissect in part the now and just have been reactivated ne of us, need to stand up, and stand problems that could break PMA and last January 11, 2015 during the out for one another, for the physician, suggestions that could make it the PMA for the Philippine Medical Association! that we envision it to be. continued on page 17...

Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 17

Farmaceutico de Filipinas, Inc. (CMFFI), there is now an ongoing Feeding Pro- gram. This was also coordinated with the Baranggay Health Center. Cooking utensils and kitchen wares were do- nated for the use. Society of Malta also donated shoes thru the MMS shoes for the pupils of Tecson Elementary Schoo.

As the PMA fiscal year 2014-2015 comes to a close the various component A number of fire hit Manila esp societies are also winding up their programs for the fiscal year. I would like to thank in the Tondo Area and MMS responded the governors of the regions assigned to me, i.e. Drs. Rufino A. Bartolabac (Bicol quickly. This includes those at Barang- Region), Rebecca W. Deduyo (Central Tagalog Region), Salvador G. Silverio (Manila gay Puting Bato, at Baranggay 80 and Region), Ma. Realiza G. Henson (Quezon City Region), Evangeline F. Fabian (Rizal 81, all inTondo last December 2015. Region), and Eduardo F. Chua (Southern Tagalog Region), for their cooperation in Other fires occurred in Baranggay 640, providing the news fro their respective regions. Port Area last January and at Pavia, Tondo. In all of these, besides the im- Component societies nationwide conducted the PMA National and Local mediate response, MMS had relief giv- Elections last March 15. Memebers in good standing of the component societies ings and post-fire Medical Missions. trooped to their respective poling places to cast their votes. In coordination with the

Baranggay the Committee of Disaster Five regions had their Regional Assembly in the first quarter of 2015. Committee chaired by the husband and Regions in the NCR, i.e. Central Tagalog, Manila, Quezon City and Rizal, had a joint wife team Drs. Ismael and Felicisima Regional Assembly last February 15 at the PMA Auditorium, with Central Tagalog as Bacon, a series of projects like medical the lead Region. Bicol Region, on the other hand, held its Regional Assembly last missions, Dengue Awareness Lecture March 22 at Avenue Plaza Hotel, Naga City with Camarines Sur Medical Society as the and participation in the city wide earth- host society. quake, fire, and tsunami drill were done.

By sending 6 members headed SALVADOR G. by Past President and PMA Governor SILVERIO, MD Dr. S. Silverio and Dr. Celerina Silverio, from page 16… Dr. Raul Echipare Governor, Manila Chair, Health and Wellness Committee, SSVP, the Manila Medical Society as- regional assembly in Subic. The sisted the Society of St. Vincent de Paul new President is Dr. Art Parilla and Since its inception in the 60's (SSVP) in its rehabilitation effort for the promised to have strong delega- of the Manila Medical Society (MMS) victims of Typhoon Yolanda. They had a tion in the upcoming PMA National Idigency Clinic, it has been the major Medical Mission last Sept. 6-12, 2014 in Convention in May 19-23, 2015 in regular activity of the Society. Free Clin- the municipalities of Borbon, Bogo, and Marriott Hotel, Manila. This is my ics of different specialties are being Bantayan Island in Cebu followed by legacy bringing back the Aurora done daily from 8:00 AM to 11:30 AM at Training of their Community Health Medical Society into the PMA with the MMS building located at M. De la Workers in Cebu city on Nov. 15-16, more revitalized and reorganized Fuente St., Sampaloc, Manila. It has also 2014. They had similar activities in Bgy. Medical Society. a project on Cataract Screening spear- Tagumpay, Coron, Palawan last March

headed by Dr. Edgardo Caparas and a 19-23, 2015 and in St. Bernard, South-  I would like to congratulate all my Bi-monthly Cataract Operation. A yearly ern Leyte, April 19-21, 2015. officers and members for being Operation Tuli caters mostly the 3rd active, participative members in District Chapter community where our The MMS headed by its presi- their respective areas as they im- office is located although a number of dent Dr. Alejandro Tan held it's 51st plemented their different programs them comes from other districts as Annual Convention at Century Park and activities . well. Hotel last March 14-15, 2015 at Century Park Hotel. The Program was presented Thank you for the opportunity to serve MMS have adopted Baranggay to the President by the Over-all Chair the PMA and the Central Luzon Region 448 at Zone 44, M. De la Fuente st., Dr. Benigno Ong followed by a Message as Governor for 2014-2015. Sampaloc, Manila, and have imple- from the guest of honor and guest mented projects for them. In coopera-  tion with the Colegio Medico- continued on page 18... Page 18 The Physician from page 17, Dr. Salvador Silverio... For its members, the QCMS conducted a Basic Life Support (BLS) REBECCA W. speaker PMA President Dr. Ma. Minerva Training/Seminar. DEDUYO, MD Calimag. The 2nd day was highlighted Governor, Central Tagalog Region by a Holy Mass Officiated by Fr. Benjie Outreach activities included Ledesma, MMS Business Meeting, and HIV Testing & Education to residents of PMA and MMS election. Scientific Ses- Project 6 which was held at the Baran- The year 2014-2015 had been a good year for my being a Governor of sions during the convention were "Self gay Hall. This was done in line with the a district whose component societies Assessment Modules in UTI and Ty- DOH HIV Awareness Program owing to phoid Fever", by Dr. Anne de Cas- are very active within their component the sudden increase of HIV cases in the tro,"The 400 Challenge", by Dr. Ma Fe as well as the activities of the Philippine Philippines. Also, QCMS donated wheel- Tayzon, "The Role of Vit B and Neuro- Medical Association. Marikina Valley chairs to deserving under privileged bics on Nerve Aging", by Dr. Cheridine Medical Society and Makati Medical residents of Quezon City. Pneumonia Society are both recipients of the most Oro-Josef, "Chronic Obstructive Pulmo- immunizations to adolescents & Elderly coveted most active component society nary, by Dr. Albert Albay, "Colon Cancer were done in different districts as well (Icasiano Award), all my component Screening" by Dr. Robert Chang, " societies participate in the major activity Breast Cancer" by Dr. Myla Torillo, and as Blood-letting activities. More impor- of the PMA, namely Foundation Day, "Future Minima Invasives Surgery", tantly, through the QCMS Care to Share Medicine Week, Regional Assembly and Foundation, an implementing arm of by Dr. Benito Tan. finally as members of the organizing the society, the Bato-bato Pick Program committee for the PMA annual conven- which detects cancer of the Prostate & Aside from the Scientific Meet- tion. All of them submitted a complete ings and RTDs by the District Chapters, Kidney Stones was continued making its report for the whole year. To name a and the scientific lectures during the rounds in different barangays of the city few of their participation let me remind 51st MMS Annual convention, the with no less than the QCMS President you of the following: Mother Society conducted several sci- Dr. Wilfredo S. Tagle a certified Urolo- entific symposia with Dr. Dr. Verner gist, doing the examination, interpreta- CHRISTMAS PROGRAM: Veloso as speaker and these included tion & possible intervention. Makati Medical Society thru it’s Presi- the lectures on " Folic Acid in Pediat- dent Dr. Sixta Foronda was assigned chairman for the occasion. She again rics", "The Role of Ancylovir and Zinc Another significant event decorated the auditorium like a hotel Oxide in the Management of Herpetic rvhere the QCMS actively participated in ballroom. She also organized games and Varicella Infection", and "Taurine, was in the PMA National Election where with raffle and distributed prizes for the Folic Acid, and Riboflavin and the B- it held its own local election simultane- participants. The other component Complex Vitamins for Peripheral Neu- ously, on March 15,2015 at the PMA societies present like Caloocan, Mariki- ropathy‖. Auditorium. I am proud to say that it naValley, San Juan, Pasay Parañaque

 was a peaceful & orderly elections. Last and Valenzuela also contributed to the but not the least the year was capped program by having some participants to by a Digital Photography Contest which sing or dance. Truly the affair was very was open to all members entitled successful and enjoyable.

MA. REALIZA G. "Doctors in Nation Building. HENSON, MD REGIONAL ASSEMBLY FOR

Governor, Quezon City NCR: We had a series of meetingS in Although the fiscal year is Region preparation for this. All were active. Dr. soon to end and awards have been Roger Dazo, President of Caloocan The last quarter of the fiscal given the Quezon City Medical Society Medical Society volunteered to be year saw the Quezon City Medical Soci- continues to adhere to its vision & mis- responsible for the holy mass. Pasay ety winding up its projects for the year, sion, working hand in hand with the Parañaque Medical Society for the reception. Other like San Juan Medical and continuing its programs for the PMA in achievirg its goal "Ons health, Society, Makati and Marikina were all professional development of its mem- one li&, one PMA" Impowering the Fili- there. It was a highly successful affair bers of the various projects that it car- pino Physician in nation building. with speakers like Dr. Anthony C. ries on, the most recent of which was  Leachon, PCP President, Dr. Ramon the launching of the Milk Banking Pro- Abarquez for CME, Dr. Bayani Tecson ject which will benefit breastfeeding for the Constitutional Amendments and mothers whose breast milk is inade- Dr. Zenaida Uy Javier for the comelec quate. rules.

Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 19 from page 18… Dr. Rebecca Deduyo… adviser (Dr Milagros Bacsain). The Board with My Doc‖ was spearheaded by Dr. tackeled several important matters in- Marc Collao, TACMS Sports Committee Truly I am very happy to have cluding several projects and activities Head and a runner enthusiast himself, been a Governor for this district. As for the year 2015, the PMA National under the leadership of Dra. Maribel mentioned all of them are very active and Local Elections, 108th PMA Annual Diaz, TACMS president, and supported component societies in terms of various Convention as well as issues regard- ing by the TACMS officers and committee programs for it’s member. We are now membership an heads and members preparing for the PMA Annual Conven- tion on May. RPMS held the PMA National  and Local Elections last March 15, 2015  at the JCLS Bldg. of San Juan De Dios Hospital. RPMS COMELEC Members EDUARDO F. were Dr. Milagros Bacsain, Dr. Kim Dela CHUA, MD Rosa and Dr. Virginia Crisostomo. Not Governor, Southern EVANGELINE F. only was the event essential for PMA Tagalog Region FABIAN, MD but during this time members were Governor, Rizal Region reunited as they take a break from their The Southern Tagalog Associa- busy clinic schedules and hospital du- tion of Medical Practitioners - STAMP Malabon Navotas Medical ties to fullfill their responsibilities as would like to congratulate Dr. Minerva Society - An Ounce of Prevention is members of PMA and its component P. Calimag for winning her second term worth a Pound of Cure (Dr Russell society. as PMA President, putting aside politics Villanueva): Members of the Malabon since STAMP solidly voted for Dr. Benny Navotas Medical Society are in the fore- Taytay Angono Cainta Medi- Atienza, we wish her a smooth and pro- front of healthcare delivery in our cities. cal Society (TACMS) - ―RUN AND ductive term this year as head of the With the growing cases of chronic dis- WALK WITH MY DOC‖ by Marivic C. PMA. STAMP likewise would like to con- eases, concerns on these conditions Agulto-Mercadal, MD: Taytay Angono gratulate Dr. Annette Macayaon from draining our citizens of their productiv- Cainta Medical Society (TACMS) suc- Marinduque Medical Society as the next ity and finances have risen. We believe cessfully held its first fund-raising fun Governor for Southern Tagalog and Dr. that medical programs to educate our run last December 14, 2014 at the Ma- Benjie Alaban from Cavite Medical Soci- patients and health screening can help nila East Road, Taytay, Rizal. ―Run and ety as the in-coming STAMP President decrease burden of these diseases. For Walk with my Doc‖ aimed to raise funds and Governor in-line after Dr. the first quarter of 2015, we had a series for the constituents of Taytay, Angono Macayaon. of screening programs such as 1) Alaga and Cainta who are commonly affected sa Puso - Hypertension and CV disease during calamities like typhoons and The STAMP members have evaluation, 2) DRE program -screening floods. This activity also intended to been busy under taking the task of for BPH and Prostate Cancer and 3) CV promote health and wellness by exer- screening the nominies for this years Risk factors screening - Blood sugar and cise and to foster camaraderie among 24th Dr. Jose P. Rizal Award, the search cholesterol determination. Aside from doctors and patients. The event was for outstanding Filipino physician in 5 these programs, we had an education participated by young and old, men and different categories, we would like to program, with more than a hundred women from Rizal and nearby cities. It thank our pharmaceutical partner, attendees, where medical specialists was a fun-filled event with Mayor Janet UniLab, for their annual support of this from our society talked about ways to Mercado of Taytay opening the cere- important PMA endeavor. The STAMPa- prevent pulmonary diseases (Dr Daryl monies. A zumba class warmed up the milya met last February 15, 2015 at St. de Ramos) and renal diseases (Dr Reina participants, with lots of games and Cabrini Medical Center in Sto. Tomas, Antonio). prizes generously given. Batangas. to screen the nominees for the different categories. We are happy Rizal Parañaque Medical At gun start, hundreds of par- to report the success of the campaign Society: Rizal Parañaque Medical Soci- ticipants run and walked with their doc- since all 5 categories had several nomi- ety (formerly Parañaque Medical Soci- tors. It was a beautiful sight to see, with nees. The scores where sent to the ety) president, Dr. Jose Ronald Galang these people gearing towards one com- judges for their basis for selection for presided the RPMS Board Meeting last mon goal, to be of help to others and the winners. We have scheduled several February 26. Other officers and mem- making a difference in the society. meetings with the Board of Judges of bers who attended were past society the different categories to assist them in presidents, Drs. Leah Castro and Dr. Rey The overwhelming turn out of their selection. Hipolito, treasurer (Dr. Cecil Sta. Ana), this event was indeed beyond what the secretary (Dr. Raquel Llarena), and organizers expected. The ―Run and Walk continued on page 20... Page 20 The Physician from page 19, Dr. Ed Chua… Regional Council meeting is on April 25 -26, 2015 at Pwerto Galera, in Mindoro RUFINO A. The STAMPamilya conducted Oriental which is sponsored by both BARTOLABAC, MD its Regular Regional Council Meeting at Mindoro Oriental and Occidental Medi- Governor, Bicol Region Nawawalang Paraiso in Tayabas Quezon cal Societies. last March 1, 2015 this was sponsored Aside from the Regional As- by the Quezon Medical Society, it was I would like to congratulate sembly, component societies in Bicol joined by majority members of STAMP. our STAMP members who won this Region continued their Continuing Issues pertaining to PMA and STAMP years Icasiano Award namely Laguna Medical Education activities. Albay where discussed.The next scheduled Medical Society - First place and Cavite Medical Society conducted activities Regional Council meeting is on April 25 Medical Society for grabbing the sec- such as Basic and Clinical Thyroid -26, 2015 at Pwerto Galera, in Mindoro ond place both for Category II; Batan- Course, 3rd Annual Post Graduate gas Medical Society - First place for Oriental which is sponsored by both Course entitled ―Basics and Beyond . . . . Category IV and getting all the awards Mindoro Oriental and Occidental Medi- What you should know‖ and Alzeimer’s for category V are San Pablo City - First cal Societies. Forum. Catanduanes Medical Society place; Taal - Lemery second placer, and had a lecture on Updates on Azithromy- tied for third place are Bauan and Ori- The STAMPamilya conducted cin among Pediatric Patients while Mas- ental Mindoro Medical Societies. They its Regular Regional Council Meeting at bate Medical Society had a lecture on were awarded due to the significant and Nawawalang Paraiso in Tayabas Quezon Newborn Hearing Screening Law numerous activities they conducted for last March 1, 2015 this was sponsored the benefit of their patients, the com- by the Quezon Medical Society, it was The societies also continued munity and their members in their re- joined by majority members of STAMP. their service to the community. Camari- spective areas. Issues pertaining to PMA and STAMP nes Norte Medical Society conducted where discussed. The next scheduled  Medical Mission at Divine Mercy Parish Alawihao Daet, Camarines Norte and a clean up drive at Bagasbas beach, Daet, Camarines Norte while Camarines Sur Medical Society gave a lecture to stu- dents of Camarines Sur National High School on First Aid and conducted a clean up drive at the coasts of Pasacao, Camarines Sur.

their breakfast. After breakfast we took  MA. CRISTINA C. DANAC- them to a brief tour of the city and DELFIN, MD stopping in notable places like the Come Sunday morning, Febru- Governor, Western Visayas Santa Monica Parish Church which ary 8, 2015, all were ready for the Re- Region houses the Panay Bell – the biggest bell gional Assembly which started Registra- in Asia and to the Dried Fish Market in tion at 8AM and Program Proper at The annual PMA-UNILAB Banica. Then they checked in at the Sn 9AM. This was held at the CAP Audito- Regional Assembly is one of the impor- Antonio Beach Resort in Baybay, Roxas rium, Fuentes Drive, Roxas City, Capiz tant events that a PMA Governor has to City, Capiz and we all had to get ready For our region the topics were: tackle during his or her term of office. for the board meeting. Some Gover- Mind you, it is not an easy task espe- nors who took a short stint in Boracay 1. Drugs with no Therapeutic Claims: cially if a Regular Board meeting will joined us later.After lunch, the regular How Safe – Speaker: Dr. Isidro C. also be held a day before the Assembly. board meeting commenced. There was Sia. But if you have the cooperation of your a relatively dynamic and participative Regional Council members – the Presi- discussion so much so that the meeting 2. Immunizations: Myths and Falla- dents and officers of the Component ended at 9PM. Some of the guests for cies – Speaker: Dr. Milagros S. Societies within your region- then orga- the fellowship dinner started without Bautista. nizing this major proceedings will be a the Board. The Regional Council even ―walk in the park”. And so the big day took time out during the Fellowship 3. Issues on Pediatric Allergic Skin came! With fellow CMS officers, we Dinner to hold a Council Meeting to Diseases & Skin Care Steroid welcomed the PMA party of 18 on Feb- discuss concerns to put forth at the Phobia: Conquering the Fear – ruary 7, 2015 at the Roxas City Airport Consultative Meeting with the PMA Speaker: Dr. Cherry Ann D. Distor and brought them to Sand Bar Resto for Board the next day.

Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 21

from page 20… Dr. Ma. Christina Danac- MOP of TB Program at Anda de Boracay On November 27, 2014, The Delfin Resort, Anda, Bohol Bohol Medical Society to responds to calamity caused by Typhoon Queenie. 4. Tested Formula for Preventing On July 4, 2014, As a PMA Diabetes – Speaker: Dr. Queenie Governor, I inducted the officers of AM- Last December 12 ,2014, Gov. Ngalob – Samonte HOP Cebu at Duero, Bohol. Edgar Chatto was the Inducting Officer of the AMHOP Bohol w/ PMA Gover- During Lunch, the PMA Board On July 26, 2014, As PMA Gov- nor, Dr. Torrefranca said in his msg., had a consultative meeting with the ernor, support was given to the Medical ‖Why Become A Member of The PMA.?‖ Presidents and other officers of the Mission Abboitiz Foundation at Ramon Component Societies. All Societies Magsaysay Gym, Ubay, Bohol. On January 3, 2015 The PMA were represented during the meeting. It Join BOHOL HEAT IT Caravan at Loboc was a fruitful discussion and strength- On August 26, 2014 during the Bohol with the areas affected by Ty- ened the ties of the PMA with its roots CMS Board Meeting at Harolds Hotel, phoon Senyang in the municipalities of or branches? – the Component Socie- Cebu City, President Dr. Marlon Co se- Loboc. Maribojoc, Cortes & Antequera ties. I personally could not have pull it cured approval by the board for the through without the magnanimous sup- intent of hosting the PMA Annual con- On April 11, 2015, the PMA – port of the Officers and Members of the vention on 2016...also a Resolution for CME Regional Assembly at Bohol Trop- Component Societies – Aklan Medical the support of the present administra- ics Hotel, Tagbilaran City, Bohol with Society headed by Dr. Feven Palomar, tion of Dr. Calimag.. delegates coming from all Component Antique Medical Society headed by Dr. Societies of the Region. Francisco Aquines, Jr., Canlaon Medical On September 12, 2014, The Society headed by Dr. Salve Regina Je- Bohol medical Society passed a resolu-  sena, Capiz Medical Society headed by tion supporting the present administra- Dr. Jesus D. Diaz, jr., Guimaras Medical tion of Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag. Society headed by Dr. Edward Jabasa, ETHEL AURELIA

Iloilo Medical Society headed by Dr. LAGRIA, MD On September 25, 2014 during Ruel Malata and the Negros Occidental Governor, Eastern Visayas the TB Lung Month Celebration given Medical Society headed by Dr. Bob Region by the Bohol Provincial Health Office Puerta. Plus of course, for spear head- gave Dr. Victor Alan A. Torrefranca the ing the Regional Assembly – the PMA following recognition: Champion of All For the past 10 months as your and Unilab. Thank you, thank you eve- Champion in Advocacy and Best Per- board of Governor, i am so blessed ryone. forming RHU serving the doctors of Eastern Visayas. I

am likewise honored to work hand in Madamong Salamat gid sa hand with the 6 different local society On September 21 - 27, 2014, inyong tanan! Mabuhay kayo. Mabuhay president.. I cannot complain less since The Medicine Week Celebration of ang PMA. Magandang buhay sa ating these people are really working hard Bohol Medical Society had the following lahat. without salary. I am proud to present to events: you colleague, the 7 local president of

 Eastern Visayas.  Wreath Laying, Motorcade &

Fellowship Dr. Gabino S. Velasquez:

VICTOR ALAN A. He is the President of Biliran Medi-  Present during the wreath Laying at TORREFRANCA, MD cal Society for several years. Worked as Governor, Central Visayas the Rizal Park are Dr.Josephine Medical Officer at Biliran Provincial Region Jabonillo, BMS V-Pres; Dr. Jose Ar- Hospital then at Maripipi as Municipal cay, President & Dr. Grace Araneta Health Officer. He was appointed as Past President & Students from On June 30, 2014, I was the chief of the Technical section at Biliran Cristal E College PMA representative to a meeting with Provincial Health Office. Last 2007, he

Dr. Celi de Guzman of PMSNC & Pro- ran in the Municipality of Naval and  During the Fellowship night, The vincial Governor, Hon. Atty. Edgar won as Municipal Councilor. He au- PMA Governor as Host/Emcee; Dr. Chatto Re: Medical & Surgical Mission thored many ordinances related to Disi Yap-Alba Past Governor; to Bohol on January 2015. health, anti-smoking and BHW added Dr.Ben Omo BMS Past President benefits to name a few. I would like to are both with me in the presidential On July 1-3, 2014, Trained and name him as the working doctor/ table. Facilitated the DOH Region 7 on revised councilor.

Page 22 The Physician from page 21, Dr. Ethel Lagria…

Dr. Gilbert Layon: Dr. Gilbert is a General Surgeon and has been the President for many years of the Northern Samar Medical Society. He finished his residency train- ing for surgery at the Capitol Medical Center. Highlights of the event were MA. GAY M. the Presidential Message of Dr. Maria Dr. Emmanuel Rosales: GONZALES, MD Minerva P. Calimag and the updates of Dr. Rosales is the President of Governor, Western the Continuing Medical Education given the Samar Medical Society for quite a Mindanao Region by Dr. Albert J. De Leon, Member of the long years too. He is a fellow of the PMA-CME Commission. Governor Dr. Philippine College of Physician and a The PMA Western Mindanao Ma. Gay Gonzales presented the PMA fellow of the Philippine College of Car- chapter is composed of nine compo- constitutional amendments to the dele- diology. nent societies which are Zamboanga gates and the rights of every member Dr. Ma. Imelda G. Rodriguez: City Medical Society, Basilan Medical as well as the benefits. Dr. Imelda is the Chief of Hos- Society, Zamboanga Del Sur Medical pital at Southern Leyte Provincial Hospi- Society, Zamboanga Del Norte Medical The assembly was a success. tal, Maasin City and President of the Society, Zamboanga Sibugay Medical Most of the members actively partici- Southern Leyte Medical Society. Society, Sulu Medical Society, Dipolog pated in the open forum. The Zambo- Medical Society, Tawi-Tawi Medical anga City Mayor, Hon. Ma. Isabelle Cli- Dr. Maria Elvira Galapon Casal: Society and Dapitan Medical Society. maco missed to grace the occasion due Dr. Elvie Casal is the President to her hectic schedules. However, the of the Leyte Medical Society. She was The 2015 Western Mindanao Mayor feted the PMA National and the past President of POGS region 8 Regional Assembly was held at Garden ZCMS officers to a dinner after the re- and of Rotary Kandaya Tacloban. She Orchid Hotel, Zamboanga City last Feb- gional assembly at Café Resto, Garden was an assistant Dean of the College of ruary 1, 2015 with a theme as ―Kapit Orchid Hotel before the group boarded Medicine of RTR and at present is the Bisig sa Pagbabago…. Sa PMA at sa their plane back to Manila. Dean of the College of Medicine. She is Bayan‖. The host society was the Zam- one committed president and i can al- boanga City Medical Society Inc. VAYA CON DIOS! ways depend on her to support every headed by ZCMS President Dr. Man- activity that I have as a board of gover- sueta A. Sabellina under the supervision  nor. My special thanks to you, Madame of the PMA Governor of Western Min- Elvie. danao chapter, Dr. Ma. Gay M. Gonzales

Dr. Rhodette Arevalo: who was also the past president of the RUBEN O. GO, MD, Dr. Rhodette is very active as ZCMS for two years. FPAFP, PCOM President of Ormoc City Medical Society Governor, Northern and of Ormoc Bay Rotary Club. She is a A day before the event, Dr. Ma. Mindanao Region well-known practicing Cardiologist. Dr. Gay Gonzales together with the ZCMS Rhodette is also one of the local Presi- Officers Dr. Jejunee Rivera (Vice Presi- My stint as PMA Governor of dent whom i can depend on. Hats off dent) and Dr. Amelyn Ulanghutan Northern Mindanao started in June ako sa iyo… (Secretary) warmly welcomed the PMA 2015 after I was elected in May of the National President Dr. Maria Minerva P. same year. This is my second term as Dr. Felix Nicart: Calimag at the Zamboanga Interna- Governor since my first was in 1993 Dr. Nicart is the President of tional Airport. under the Presidency of Nenita Lee-Tan my medical society, the Eastern Samar MD for 2 years. The component socie- Medical Society. He is the Municipal During the regional assembly, ties under my region are Misamis Ori- Health Officer of the Municipality of there were 185 participants including ental Medical Society (MOMS), Bukid- Can avid. He finished his Medicine at the national officers. 75% of the atten- non Medical Society (BMS), Gingoog- UERM.. I can assure everyone that i dance came from the Zamboanga City Medina Medical Society (GMMS) and really can depend on him. Thank you, Medical Society members. There were Camiguin Medical Society (CMS). The Mr. President.. entrance of colors of the Western Min- activities of the region started with the

Leadership Training Seminar in Cebu To all of you, thank you so much… danao State University Cadets and pro- cessional of the local past governors City attended by officers of the compo-  and past presidents. nent societies. Then in July 2, Induction

Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 23

from page 22, Dr. Ruben Go… MARIA LOURDES G. of Officers of the Misamis Oriental MONTEVERDE, MD KAREN Y. CONOL- Medical Society by PMA President Mi- Governor, South SALOMON, MD nerva Calimag in Cagayan de Oro City. Eastern Mindanao Region Governor, Northcentral Mindanao Region Then on August, the Gingoog-Medina Officers were inducted by PMA Presi- PMA National Historic Events dent in Gingoog City. The Bukidnon The chapter formation of the ILIGAN CITY MEDICAL SOCIETY Medical Society was not inducted by new Component Society for the Philip- Adopt-a-Barangay our PMA President but by other person pine Medical Association, the DAVAO For the third quarter, the Iligan of which I was not informed or coordi- OCCIDENTAL MEDICAL SOCIETY, of Society of Ob-Gyn held their Buntis Day nated. There was no election of Officers the Province of Davao Occidental, which celebration in Barangay Luinab, Iligan by the Camiguin Medical Society since is a newly formed province by virtue of city. Lecture on Hypertension in Preg- according to one of the Physician whom RA 10360. The new Society was in- nancy was done in response to one I asked to lead the society, the physi- ducted into office last April 09, 2015 in request by the Barangay Health Work- cians in this area are members of the Davao City by the PMA SEM Governor ers because of cases of hypertension in Misamis Oriental Medical Society or Dr. Maria Lourdes G. Monteverde, with pregnancy in their community. It fol- from Cebu Medical Society. its founding Chapter President, Dr. lowed by prenatal check-ups, ultra- Anne Margaux Bautista-Quezada, which sound examinations, and laboratory The activities of the societies was witnessed by the PMA SEM Re- tests. gional Council of Presidents. were mainly Scientific Activities Activities done outside the adopted sponsored by Pharma companies The Reorganization and revi- Barangay and in cooperation with other spe- talization of the Davao Oriental Medi- December was a busy month cialties societies. Non scientific ac- cal Society, was done thru the PMA for IMS. United Iligan, a non- tivities include Christmas party, tree SEM Governor Dr. Maria Lourdes G. government organization that aims to planting, strategic planning and ac- Monteverde , with the induction of its help rebuild the lives of the Sendong tivities during Medicine Week and New set of Officers led by its President, survivors, invited the Iligan Medical PMA Election. I visited the three Dr. Florence Flores, in Mati City last Society in the third Typhoon Sendong component societies except for March 22, 2015. anniversary. It was a weeklong celebra-

Camiguin since inspite of many re- tion which started Dec 7 to Dec 10, PMA SEM Governor Initiated Interna- quests for visitation, the physician 2014. The Medical missions were held. tional Events Dr. Arnel Debalucos, our Community whom I designated as acting Presi- Hosted the visit of the Macau outreach committee chairman had as- dent was always not in Camiguin. It University of Science and Technology signed different groups each day so is frustrating on my part because visit in Davao City and the Gusi Peace that all members can participate. We when I was the Governor during my Prize International, last February 20, went to the different relocation sites of first term, Camiguin Medical Society 2015, which paved the way for the up- the Sendong survivors and did medical coming MOU with the Davao Medical was reactivated and back to the fold check-ups. The activity culminated with School Foundation Hospital and the of the PMA. Now I think that this a ―Lakbayan‖ , a walk from the city post partnership of the Philippine Medical society cannot be reactivated be- office to ground zero, which is at Association and the upcoming Sino cause there are only less than five Luso International Medical Forum in Hinaplanon, Iligan City. During the physicians who are considered ac- Manila this November 2015. walk, the participants were asked to tive. pick-up garbage like pieces of plastics/ PMA SEM Regional Events papers until they reached Hinaplanon. After the last PMA Election, I am Hosted the PMA Regional There was an ecumenical service and a elected for another year as Governor Assembly at the Marco Polo Hotel, program honoring and remembering of Northern Mindanao. I hope that I Davao City: Oct. 26, 2014. Organized those who have perished on that fateful day, December 17, 2011. can reactivate the Camiguin Medical the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR Region XI) Dialogue with the Davao Society and challenge the other Medical Society Officers and the Spe- MISAMIS OCCIDENTAL three component societies to be cialty Organizations President. Con- (OROQUIETA CITY) MEDICAL SOCIETY more participative to the activities of ducted the PMA SEM Regional Council Operation Smile PMA. of Presidents Quarterly Meetings Last January 12 to 15, 2015, MOMS Oroquieta City with Smile Train,   PAMAG (Philippine American Medical

Page 24 The Physician from page 23, Dr. Karen Conol-Salomon... AUXILIARY TO THE PHILIPPINE MEDICAL Association of Georgia), and the Provin- ASSOCIATION cial Government of Misamis Occidental conducted surgical mission for the re- pair of Cleft Palate and Cleft Lip among JOINT MEDICAL MISSION TOPICS AWARDS indigent patients at the Misamis Occi- dental Provincial Hospital, Oroquieta City. A total of 25 children benefited The Auxiliary to the Philip- APMA's flagship project, such project. This was the second time pine Medical Association led by the selection of nominees for the PAMAG sponsored a surgical-medical President Elvira Estuita, in collabo- The Outstanding Physicians In Com- mission in this city. The first time was in ration with CHAP and Ang Nars munity Service (TOPICS) Awards, 2011. Party List, held a medical mission is underway. The TOPICS Awards

last Sunday, April 12, 2015 at Bgy. Ang Panata Night is the culminating activity of For the last 15 years, San Isidro Labra- 176 in Caloocan City. the Physician's Day celebration held dor Parish of Calamba, Misamis Occi- every September 27, which was de- dental sponsored medical-surgical- The said joint project con- clared through a presidential decree dental mission for indigent patients in sisted of medical consultation, medi- signed by President Ferdinand Mar- the said town every Holy Wednesday. cine dispensing, distribution of This year, it was held last April 1, 2015. cos through the endorsement of Twenty medical doctors belonging to health kit and health lecture. CHAP APMA. MOMS Oroquieta City volunteered their President Carlito Pajarillo, Jr. led services together with 5 dentist, 25 the team of doctors in providing The awardees chosen for nurses, 5 pharmacists, and 5 medical medical consultation. Certificates of their exemplary service to the com- technologists. The numbers of cases Appreciation were given to the par- munity over and above their profes- treated were as follows: Medical Adult - 176; Pedia 280; circumcision 400; dental ticipants courtesy of Ang Nars, sional duties will be honored in fit- 220. Laboratories did include 160 for while APMA provided the lunch. ting ceremonies and will be the re- blood sugar, and 150 for cholesterol. ceiving the prestigious Abueva tro- APMA 69TH ANNUAL phy made by national artist Napo-  CONVENTION leon Abueva.

The APMA 69th Annual Nomination forms can be ANGELO L. Convention will be held on May 21, obtained from Dra. Malou Alvarado DIMAANO, MD Governor, Caraga 2015 at the Manila Marriott Hotel at 09178020037 and her email ad- Region located in Newport Blvd., Pasay dress at [email protected]. City with the theme "Creating a During the Typhoon Seniang Legacy of Professionalism and Ser-  1,500 families evacuated. Medical Ser- vice." vice was given to the evacuees. Doctors were also sent to Borongan Samar form I can't change the Medical Mission. Expected to grace the occa- sion is Senator Mary Grace Poe- direction of the wind, Regional Council meeting was Llamanzares who will be the Key- but I can adjust my held to discuss the upcoming Regional note Speaker, while PMA president Assembly with Agusan Del Norte Medi- Dr. Minerva Calimag will be the sails to always reach cal Society as Host Society and the issue of the next Governor of the Caraga Re- Inspirational Speaker. Varied topics my destination. of interest will be discussed such as gion. The council decided to endorse Dr. Alex Bascug of Bayugan, Agusan Del Breast Cancer, Sex in the 70s, Cli- Sur. mate Change and the Legal Rights of - Jimmy Dean Women and Children.  Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 25

PMA CHRISTMAS PARTY at the PMA Auditorium December 13, 2014

PMA President Dr. Maria Minerva P. Calimag, delivering The theme of the Christmas party was "Balabal Ko, her Christmas message Panlaban sa Lamig mo, Handog ng mga Mangagamot ng Pilipinas para sa Mamamayan ng Palo, Leyte"

APPA-PMA Joint Congress 2015 at the Rigodon Ballroom, Manila Hotel January 8-9, 2015

PMA as part of 450 contingent of DOH PMA National Elections 2015-2016 on Papal Visit Proclamation of Winners, March 30, 2015 Page 26

THE PMA - APPA STORY SANTIAGO A. DEL ROSARIO, M.D. Former PMA President, 1988-1989

World War II exposed the Philip- In 1974, her favorite student in about the occasion through Vice Presi- pines to the Japanese rules during their Pediatrics at the UST College of Medi- dent Pelaez and Senator Arroyo and regime. Likewise, the country’s state of cine, Dr. Felino V. Barnes convinced her invited the participants to Malacañang health care was observed by Americans to organized a two-weeks Postgraduate as an appreciation to the patriotism of who took over occupying postwar Phil- Course in Tropical Medicine for the As- the Fil-American physicians who main- ippines. sociation OF Philippine Practicing Physi- tained their interests love and attach- cians in America (APPA). Dr. Fe Del ments with their former home land. General Douglas Mac Arthur noted Mundo complied with the request of Dr. the health situation in the country and Barnes as the Overall Chairman for the Since then several PMA-APPA con- the quality of Health care. He was being U.S.A. and Dr. Fe Del Mundo as the ventions and medical missions were sympathetic to the Filipinos just like his Overall Co-Chairman. held in the country earning CME units in father, General Arthur Mac Arthur who the PMA and likewise CME credits from was the military Governor in the Philip- As Vice Chairmen, Dr. Carmen L. the American Medical Associations and pines when the Americans took over the Asuncion, Dr. Eduardo R. De La Cruz, Dr. Tax allowances from the U.S. IRS taxa- country after defeating the Spaniards. Santiago A. Del Rosario were appointed tion office. with Dr. Ramon R. Angeles as the Ex- Douglas Mac Arthur was a signifi- ecutive Secretary. Last January 9, 2015, the Associa- cant support in the approval of the Visi- tion of Philippine Physicians Practicing tor-Exchange Program of the US This was the biggest scientific joint in America and the Philippine Medical wherein Filipino physicians upon project of the Philippine Pediatric Soci- Association conducted a joint scientific graduation, may avail of the Program to ety, PMA, Philippine Academy of Family congress at the Manila Hotel for several continue post-graduate studies, intern- Physicians and the Philippine Federation days. Just like President Corazon Aquino ship, residency training, and Fellowship of Private Medical Practitioners. Field in 1988, President Noynoy Aquino with in recognized U.S. Medical Universities trips were made in Baguio, Cavite, and the assistance of Acting DOH Secretary Pampanga, FEU, UERM, UST, and MCU and Medical Centers, most often the Garin welcomed the occasion and ap- faculties were involved in the joint con- John Hopkins in Mary Land, Harvard preciated the Fil-American physicians vention. University in Boston and Cook Country who maintained their love of the Philip- pines, their former home land. Hospital in Chicago U.S.A. Subsequent joint activities were not

as large and significant but continued in Every year since, a considerable PMA delegates led by President sporadic missions. segment of the graduating classes of Minerva Calimag, Secretary General Marianne Dobles, PMA Governors the major medical schools, i.e. UP, UST, In 1987 there was a renewed en- Rufino Bartolabac, Albert Guevarra, MCU, FEU, and later UERM, extended thusiasm in the Association of the Phil- Maria Lourdes Monteverde, Karen Salo- their Medical Studies in the U.S.A. From ippine Practicing Physicians in America mon and myself as former PMA Presi- 1948 to 1978 tens of Thousands of Fili- hence President Nena Eng Tan revived dent. pino physicians resided in the U.S. as the idea of having a joint scientific ven- medical students, interns, residents, ture of PMA-APPA. However plans and APPA delegates were led by Presi- fellows, and even private practitioners preparations were delayed because of dent Carlos Patalinghug and wife, Ex- as American Citizens. the need for a large amount of funding ecutive Secretary Lucy De Castro, Auxil-

and the setting up of the PMA Library lary President Lilibeth Carlota, Director In 1969 during the PMA presidency and Archives. Hence, it was during my Lupo Carlota and Congress Alex Cueto. of Dr. Fe Del Mundo, many of her for- incumbency in 1988 that the conceived mer students then in America attended joint project materialized. Undoubtedly, the spirit of coopera- the PMA convention. She learned of the tion, mutual support, camaraderie, and A huge delegation of APPA officers presence of several Filipino Medical unity between PMA and APPA members and members joined the PMA sector in Associations in the United States mem- will prevail in succeeding years to come. the First Annual Joint PMA-APPA Con- bers of which made periodic home- coming visits to attend scientific con- gress held for several days at the Manila  ventions and medical missions. Hotel. President Cory Aquino learned Volume XXIV, No. 3 Page 27

"Some of us are afraid of the sunset Mercy and Compassion from up above. It When we got off from our comfortable as we are afraid of the dark. But we are is this contagion that spread like wildfire cushioned cars, and walked to our as- not afraid anymore. Because yesterday in when Lolo Kiko waved his hand and signed stations, we shrugged off the rains Tacloban you taught us that love cast out smiled from afar. So far yet so near. that were falling on us. We taught of the all our fears. Your love for Filipinos is Heeding the call of the Philippine showers of blessings that God has be- stronger than all typhoons. Your love is Medical Association through its leader Dr stowed on us, and those that we have typhoon-proof." Arch. Socrates Villegas. Minerva Calimag, physicians dropped their missed to thank Him for. The climate was This is how the Archbishop summa- armamentarium of stethoscopes and unusually cold, but our belief in our exis- rized the sentiment of the calamity-weary diagnostics and planned for the chance tence were burning by the seconds, min- Filipinos on the Pope's recent visit to the encounter with the Pope. It didn't matter utes, and hours that led us to our destina- Philippines, a visit highlighted by the his- to us that as physicians we were used to tion. We walked aimlessly but we arrived torical mass in Tacloban City - ground getting choice seats for dignitaries, what in no time, a parallel in Life that our often zero of a super typhoon a year before that mattered more was that we were one with crooked paths always that our often left the nation broken and the world in the Filipino people in paying respect for a crooked paths always lead us to where tears. But the resiliency of the Taclobenos, future saint. God wanted us to be. We were definitely as well as the Filipinos, made the visit of At crucial moments in our quest for moved by scenes around us, Filipinos Pope Francis more significant and mean- our ambitions in life, our belief in God holding hands and clasping rosaries, an ingful. overt picture worth a thousand words. have been tested and challenged by the

As a nation, Filipinos collectively an- experimental method that is deeply in- Minutes before the chance en- ticipate visits of the Catholic hierarch, grained in our profession. We looked up counter with the Pope, doctors were side from Pope Paul VI to Pope John Paul II. at those which are evidence-based, and by side too with fellow doctors in the bar- After being introduced to Christianity become modern-day Thomases doubting ricade, regardless of our component so- centuries back, the only predominantly those that are not aligned with our scien- cieties, and specialties, general practitio- Catholic country in Asia has exemplified a tific way of thinking. ners walking hand in hand with pediatri- tenacity that shows its best form in the The year before the papal visit, I was cians, obstetricians, surgeons and the midst of natural as well as man made ca- shaken by a disease that made me realize other specialties. There were no differ- lamities. Is it any wonder then that a re- life should be treasured and not taken for ences now, only one as a Nation in Prayer. cord- breaking 6 million people gathered granted. Doctors , in their desire to make We reflected that when two or more are in Manila on the Pope's final day of bless- a difference among their patients and own ing in Luneta ? It was not for the Guinness, families , should always take time to listen gathered in his Name, He will be with us. but to show the world its unwavering to the signs of weary bodies. Is my quest How then can His presence be explained Faith. for knowledge and excellence undermin- by the millions?

ing the given vulnerabilities of age? Have I On the fateful days of January 2015, For an organization like the Philip- overlooked my personal well being in my our everyday lives came to a halt from the pine Medical Association, uniting for a everyday desire to cure my patients? time Pope Francis stepped on the tarmac, rare expression of faith is a leveling up of Experiences have always been the best with the very basic unit of society, the teachers, and after the realization of these the stature of an organization that defines family welcoming him and his entourage lessons, I have looked forward to sharing who we are as a profession. The president with open arms. In a rare collaboration by them too. was not a blind man who showed us the the state and the church, the success of way but an enlightened leader who is the Filipinos' encounter with the Holy The weather forecast for Lolo Kiko's guided by Faith. Tonight, let us pray again Father was secured. The Philippine Presi- final mass in Luneta was gloomy, yet the and thank our Creator for the privilege to dent's declaration of a public holiday spirit of the Filipino physicians who volun- serve and make this world a better place completed the scenario of a country eager teered for the human barricade were not to live. Long live Lolo Kiko, long live the and anxious of the Holy Father, The Philip- dampened. No amount of rainfall could PMA! pines is acknowledged for its longest cast a cloud of uncertainty on our desire Christmas season, and the most venerable to be blessed one final time. We donned  observance of Lent, two showcases of the transparent raincoats and caps issued by Catholic tradition. The coming of the the Department of Health, and was ready Holy Father was anticipated to be a to line the streets of Manila where the homecoming of the One that represented Pope would pass by on his way to Luneta. PMA SEAL

An inner moss green circle with the Aesculapius symbol (a staff branched at the top standing upright with a serpent coiled around it up to the top) at the center and the capitals "M" on the left and the letter "D" on the right. The Aesculapius symbol and the letters "M" and "D" (or MD for Doctor of Medicine) are all emblazoned in gold. An outer circle colored white inscribes the name PHILIPPINE MEDICAL ASSOCIATION (all in capital and in bold letter) and the year 1903 (the year when the PMA was founded) below. This outer circle where the name of the PMA and the year it was established is also written or emblazoned in gold. Finally, the two concentric circles are enclosed by a design that resembles a "rope". The "encircling rope" which symbolizes the ties of brotherhood among medical professionals should be in gold just like the symbols and the letters in the seal.

When the PMA partners with an organization, all streamers or stage backdrop should bear the PMA seal on the left (viewer looking at the streamer) and the partner organization's seal on the right (viewer at the streamer). Both seals should be placed on the same level. If in case, however, there are several organizations involved in the program or activity where the PMA is the host, then the seal of the PMA should be at the center of the streamer, backdrop, or backdrop "higher" than the other organizations. During international conferences where the PMA is host, the seal and even the PMA banner or flag should be at the center.