DEPARTMENT OF PEDIDATRICS
UNIVERSITY OF THE PHILIPPINES MANILA
PHILIPPINE GENERAL HOSPITAL
HISTORY
In The Beginning…
All things have humble beginnings. The Department of Pediatrics, like a seed, started from a single vision that flourished, and the governing principles at the conception still stand firm today. On June 10, 1907 the Philippine Medical School, now known as the College of Medicine, was established by the Philippine Commission as the first College of the future University of the Philippines. Initially, there was no Department of Pediatrics. All pediatric cases were managed in the Department of Medicine until Pediatrics became a subspecialty.
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The Pediatrics Department was one of the original eleven departments of instruction. It was headed by Dr. Jose Albert (1887-1946), who was an Obstetrician by training, but a pioneer Pediatrician by vocation. He was one of the three Filipino heads during the founding and the lone member of the faculty for the succeeding three years.
Initially located in St. Paul’s Hospital in Intramuros with a dispensary clinic and ten beds, clinical instruction revolved around the principle that “the child is not a miniature adult.” Emphasis was primarily on diagnosis and treatment.
In September of 1910, the clinical departments were transferred to the Philippine General Hospital and Pediatrics was given 20 beds and a room in the Free Dispensary Clinic. During this year, the second member of the faculty, Dr. Ricardo Leynes, was appointed.
In 1911, the first autopsy on acute infantile beriberi in the Philippines was performed in the Pediatric Clinic. Four years later, Dr. Albert and Dr. Manuel S. Guerrero, demonstrated the curative value of tiki-tiki extract in infantile beriberi. Their classical work on the disease became internationally recognized.
Dr. Jesus Gonzales, from Rush Medical College, was the first formally trained Pediatrician to be connected with the Department. He pioneered the organization of Dispensary Services. Drs. Fe Horrilleno, Elias Domingo, Teodoro Arvizu, Alberto Tupas, Irene Rosal, Albino Ocampo, and Moises Abad, were among the first resident physicians of the Department.
The pre-war history of the Department was graced by faculty members who later achieved prominence in their chosen fields. These included, to name a few: Dr. Leoncio Lopez-Rizal, Dr. Paz Mendoza-Guazon, Dr. Fe Horrilleno, Dr. Joaquin Tirona, Dr. Peregrino Paulino, Dr. Arsenio Regala, Dr. Albino Ocampo, Dr. Florencio Quintos, Dr. Artemio Jongco, Dr. Leon Pecache, and Dr. Josefina Bulatao-Jayme.
Dr. Eugene Stransky, a Vienna-educated Hungarian, joined the staff in 1939 upon the invitation of Dr. Albert. His obsession towards medical research and writing was a manifest expression of his dream “A Progressive Philippines Through Science.” Because of his numerous contributions to Philippine Pediatrics, he was considered the “Father of Scientific Pediatrics and Hematology in the Philippines.
World War II and the Post-War Years
The year 1942 to early 1945 was a Dark Period for the College and the Department. The staff was disbanded during the siege of Manila on February 3, 1945. On April 4, 1945, the department reopened with Dr. Albert still as its head, a position he kept until two weeks before his death on July 15, 1946.
Dr. Albert was succeeded by Dr. Alberto Tupas (1867-1975) as chairman of the Department from 1945-1953. Six prewar personnel were recalled to form the staff. In March 1947, the department took full charge of the Nursery, which previously was under the Department of Obstetrics. On June 26, 1947, the first Staff Conference was held and henceforth became regular. In December 1947, weekly grand rounds were introduced to discuss interesting cases by staff members with the interns and clinical clerks.
On January 18, 1948, the Well Baby Clinic was inaugurated with Dr. Florencio Quintos as director. BCG immunization was introduced using BCG from the Pasteur Institute in France. The U.S. Public Health Service endorsed the Well Baby Clinic to the Philippine General Hospital in January 1950.
It was during the incumbency of Dr. Tupas that the Philippine Pediatric Society was organized in 1947, with Dr. Tupas as the first President. He remained the Honorary President of the Organization, until his death in 1975.
Dr. Florencio Quintos (1913-1977) succeeded Dr. Tupas as chairman from 1954-1959. In the Nursery, the Premature Section was established. The perinatal mortality rate dropped from 92.3 per 1,000 in 1946-1950 to 54.1 per 2,000 in 1955-56. Under his stewardship, sections of Wards 9 and 12 were incorporated into the Department. The residents were then made to rotate in Pathology, taking charge of pediatric autopsies, and clinico-pathologic conference.
In 1959, Dr. Artemio Jongco (1909-1989) assumed chairmanship. During his term, the Department expanded with six subspecialties, i.e., Cardiovascular, Allergy, Neuromeningitis, Metabolic, Chest, and Hematology. The library originally built by Dr. Albert was expanded through purchases and donations. During the term of Dr. Jongco, a special education teacher was requested from the Department of Education.
Dr. Domiciana F. Dauis-Lawas took over as chairman, from 1968-1972. By this time, the consultant staff had expanded to 22. Dr. Lawas started a formal Residency Training Program under a Residency Training Committee, with delineation of duties, responsibilities, and privileges at different levels of residency.
In 1968, an Intensive Continuing Education Course in Pediatrics for General Practitioners was offered with Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo as program director. Since then this has become a yearly affair of the Department, attended by doctors from all over the archipelago. A program was drawn for the Josiah Macy Fellows in Pediatrics who were appointed for the first time in the Philippines. Besides training, emphasis was also placed on research.
The 1970’s
In 1970-71, a Malnutrition Ward was built at the posterior portion of the Department ward with the aid of the Philippine General Hospital, the National Science Development Board, and the US AID-Philippines. This was the first Malward of a medical school in the Greater Manila area. It has since served to rehabilitate the severely malnourished children.
Dr. Luis M. Mabilangan assumed chairmanship in 1972. Dr. Mabilangan provided a most congenial atmosphere for training and research during his term. Changes introduced included a participative type of management and administration, decentralization of authority, upgrading and re-organization of the staff, innovations in instructional objectives and methods of teaching for the second and third year medical students, and improvements in the clinical clerkship and internship programs.
The residency training program was strengthened. New subspecialties were opened, namely: Sick Neonate, Hyperalimentation, and Oncology. Allergy and Adolescent Clinics were added as out-patient clinics. The Maiden issue of the departmental journal “Pediatric Proceedings,” later known as “Postgraduate Pediatrics,” was published in 1976.
The chairman was voted “Consultant of the Year” and the department consistently chosen as the “Most Outstanding Department of the Hospital” during the years 1974, 1976, 1977, and 1980. The Nursery, as well as the two pediatric wards, was renovated through the assistance of the Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office. Dr. Mabilangan negotiated for the revival of the Josiah Macy Fellowship Program in Primary Care Pediatrics, which lasted from 1979 to 1984.
Going to the 1980’s…
Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo took over as chairman of the department on May 1, 1979. A dynamic and dedicated leader, her administration brought about numerous innovative projects and relevant milestones for the department. After the renovation of the pediatric wards in 1980, the following services were reopened: the General Services, Hematology, Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology, Endocrine-Metabolic-Renal-Genetic, Sick Neonate, and Malnutrition and Hyperalimentation Services. The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit was formally opened and medical equipment were acquired from donations, especially from the Mu Sigma Phi Alumni Board. The Pediatric Admitting Section was renovated with the assistance of Nestlé Philippines. The teaching facilities were reinforced with audiovisual aids including the Pediatric Hall with the assistance of private donors. The pediatric library was given a major boost when an entire room was assigned to it, with the help of Pediatrica. Postgraduate Pediatrics, the department’s official publication, continued to be published twice a year.
In the field of teaching, all training programs were reviewed by their respective committees and revised through workshops. The third year block system was implemented. Workshops directed towards the evaluation of clinical clerks and interns were conducted. The interns voted the Department as the Most Outstanding Department.
A common pediatric residency program was implemented in collaboration with the Association of Philippine Medical Colleges. The duties and responsibilities of residents were redefined to provide better training and supervision. The Josiah Macy Foundation was pursued to meet the pediatric manpower needs of the country.
In 1983, the first Post-residency Fellow in Neonatology was admitted to the Department. The other subspecialties subsequently followed suit in organizing fellowships, i.e., Pulmonology, Cardiology, Oncology, Adolescent Pediatrics, Developmental Pediatrics, Nephrology, Infectious Diseases, Intensive Care, and Gastroenterology.
Postgraduate courses were expanded. Aside from the Annual Postgraduate Pediatric Course for medical practitioners, the First Postgraduate Course in Pediatric Critical care and Emergency Pediatrics and the Biennial Postgraduate courses on Critical Care of the Newborn were held. Subspecialty
Postgraduate Courses are now being offered regularly by the department in line with the institutional goal to support regional manpower development.
The first Dr. Jose Albert Memorial Lecture in Pediatrics was established with Professor Summer Yaffe as speaker. This was held on July 10, 1981, and has become an annual undertaking of the Department. Subsequent speakers were Professor Alvin Mauer, Professor John Nelson, Professor Frank Falkner, and Emmanuel Lebenthal.
Faculty development was given great emphasis. Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler was chosen as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Scientists for the year 1982. All consultants were encouraged to pursue their specific interests to the fullest. Strong linkages with counterpart departments, in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan were forged. The faculty attended training and management workshops on teaching and evaluation.
To further improve the care of high-risk neonates, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit was formally opened in November 1984 with the assistance of philanthropists, private companies, and the UP Medical Foundation. It has provided ample opportunity for residents’ training and has saved many problematic neonates. Total rooming-in became a landmark achievement.
Stress was placed on ambulatory care, with the strengthening and revision of policies and staff in the Outpatient Department and Pediatric Admitting Section. Clinics were expanded and now include, aside from the Sick and Well Baby Clinics, specialty clinics such as adolescent, premature, nutrition, child development, oncology, pulmonology, endocrine, seizure, meningitis, rheumatic heart, congenital heart, renal and hematology clinics.
In the area of research, the Department, through its faculty and residents, became more involved, winning awards in various forums and research seminars. Attendance of staff members to research workshops/seminars were encouraged. The Department held its first Annual Pediatric Research Forum in September 1984.
On February 14, 1985, the pediatric wards were demolished with the Department relocated to Ward 7 and the Triage area. Bed capacity was decreased by 52 %. Conferences had to be cancelled temporarily due to paucity of available conference rooms. In July 1985, the specialty services were transferred for the second time from the triage area to Ward 14-A. Aside from the physical renovation, the hospital was likewise undergoing a major re-shuffle of department chairmen.
On October 1, 1985, Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez assumed chairmanship of the department after two terms as Assistant Chairman. Initiating the series of activities of the department for 1986 was the 1st Postgraduate Course in Perinatology on January 6-10, 1986 with Dr. Enrique Ostrea, Jr., a neonatologist from Hutzel Hospital, Detroit, Michigan, USA as main speaker. Two other courses were offered during the year: the 19th Continuing Medical Education course for medical practitioners on April 14-18, 1986, and the 1st Postgraduate Course in Hematology with Dr. Peri Kalamakar, Director of the Section of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology of the Newark Beth Israel Medical Center, New Jersey, USA on November 26-28, 1986.
All various training programs were reviewed this year - from the second year to the residency and post-residency level. Curriculum content and teaching strategies of the undergraduate courses had major revisions to complement the seven-year curriculum. Among the controversial revisions were the Integrated Clerkship I (combined 3rd year and 4th year program), and the conversion of the Clinical Clerkship in the 4th year as an elective.
On the residency level, the rotation of a first year resident in the Research Institute of Tropical Medicine was implemented. Among the firsts in the post-residency level in 1986 are in fields of Oncology, Cardiology and Gastroenterology.
On the service aspect, the Gastroenterology Unit was conceived on April 1, 1986 as a service arm of the Diarrheal Disease Unit under the helm of Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo. One of the activities of the Unit was the Oral Rehydration Corner.
In 1986, the General Service ward finally moved to its permanent home in ward 11. The rest of the units remained in Ward 14-A.
In 1987, despite the great inconveniences of having two wards far apart, the Department of Pediatrics continued with its teaching conferences and services. On February 27, 1987, the blessing of the Multidisciplinary Child and Adolescent Unit (MCAU) at the OPD Room 208 attested to our commitment to improve service and patient care.
April was the busiest month for the Department because of the transfer of the Pediatric Admitting Section to the OETS garage to give way for the construction of the future Departmental Complex and the new Emergency Room Complex (ERC). Aside from this, we had the 20th Postgraduate Course, entitled “What’s New and Applicable in Pediatrics Today?” held on April 6-10, 1987. Dr. Irene Lintag was the Program Director.
In order to improve further the teaching strategies for the different year levels, including the Residency Training and Post-Residency Training Programs, the Department sponsored a workshop at the DAP for two days. There, they tackled the various strengths and weaknesses of each program especially the objectives, teaching strategies and terminal competencies. The internship program or year level VII was discussed extensively since there was a shift of emphasis from the In-Patient to the Out-Patient service.
By December of 1987, the Department Offices and Ward 9 finally transferred to their permanent homes at the left front wing of the hospital. The blessing of the Departmental Complex and the wards followed, together with the inauguration of the Asian Dysmorphology Program, which deals with the computer-based program for syndrome diagnosis. It is part of the Multidisciplinary Child and Adolescent Unit.
In 1988, Dr. Ernesto Domingo was elected by the UP Manila Community, including UP-PGH Medical Center, as its new Chancellor. Reorganization was in high gear and all the departments were also asked to reorganize on the micro level. Therefore, in May, through Democratic Consultation, all the constituents of the Department of Pediatrics elected its Chairperson. Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez was re-elected to her second term as Chairperson of the Department. This was later followed by the reorganization of the various committees and members.
The Department was honored to have some of its faculty members appointed to key positions within the UP Manila System, namely: Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo was chosen as the University Professor of UP Manila and Dr. Josefina Añel-Lazaro was appointed as the College Secretary of the UP College of Medicine.
On April 10, 1988, the Pediatric Admitting Section (PAS), together with the rest of the Emergency Room Complex, finally moved to the new ERC. The new PAS was definitely more spacious, however, the problem of ventilation was still unresolved. On June 1988, the Nursery again moved from one temporary site in Ward 15 to the area near the Departmental Complex.
Even if 1989 was the last year of the decade, the accomplishments of the department may have very well been a prelude to the directions to be taken for the coming years.
In line with the thrust of the hospital to improve and upgrade available services, 1989 saw the opening of the upgraded and ultra-modern out-patient department and the inauguration of the Central Block on April of this year. Thus, the Department had to do its part to provide the programs and services that these new facilities are calling for. In anticipation of these becoming fully functional, the Department saw itself re-defining its objectives, programs and activities and identifying tasks and resources in terms of Key Result Areas (KRA’s) as specified by the hospital. As a result, the coming years will see a larger and hopefully better equipped pay ward, nursery, and Pediatric ICU, the improvement of services being rendered to the neonates born outside of the hospital (with the opening of the new sick neonate service) and the creation of a new facility: the Intermediate Care Unit for patients who warrant close monitoring but who do not require intensive care. Eventually, a new Cancer Institute will revolutionize the treatment of cancer in our institution.
And Into the 90’s…
With 1990 as the start of a new decade, the department continued to reshape its direction for a better tomorrow. Dynamism for change and improvement was the moving force to start the decade on the right track. Comprehensive review and necessary revisions of all programs of the department were initiated with the changing of leadership of almost all committees. This undertaking aims to redefine the goals of the department along with the changing times.
Nineteen-ninety also witnessed the first steps to a higher academic pursuit of the Department. Two highly successful postgraduate courses were held. Several young consultants also came back from their training abroad to further upgrade the training programs of each subspecialty. And lastly, the revival of the Pediatric Research Forum which accounted for the most number of finished research works, paving the way for a better and more relevant for our young residents.
Nineteen ninety-one saw the continuation of the higher academic pursuits of the department as well as emphasis on ambulatory care in pediatrics. The year started with the opening of the continuity clinic, which aims to improve the delivery of continuous outpatient care instead of the standard fragmented type of clinic services. Regular teams consisting of consultants and residents were assigned to man the daily clinics. The MCAU was likewise assigned regular resident rotators to expose the residents to the different aspects of pediatric growth and development as well as genetics. The Pay rotation was also implemented. In addition to ensuring improved service, this program provided a teaching experience for the residents by exposing them to the art of private practice.
In line with the department’s emphasis on ambulatory pediatrics, the March postgraduate course held at the PGH Science Hall was aptly entitled “New Directions in Pediatric Office Practice” with Dr. Bernadette J. Madrid as program director. The subspecialty postgraduate course in November was spearheaded by Dr. Marilyn P. Guerrero as the program director. This course in Neonatology was entitled “Practical Neonatology – Updates and Innovations.”
On February 13, 1991, the Handbook of Pediatric Cardiology was formally launched. This was shortly followed by the publication of the handbook on “Total Parenteral Nutrition in Pediatrics” from the Gastroenterology and Nutrition Section in cooperation with the Section of Pediatric Surgery.
The year also saw the transfer and opening of the respective subspecialty offices in the old PICU area in Ward 11.
On May 1, 1991, Dr. Carmelita F. Domingo assumed chairmanship of the Department. With the change in leadership, there were some changes made in the organizational structure of the Department. Three assistant chairs were appointed with specific functions pertaining to training, research and services.
The Department of Pediatrics was honored to have some of its faculty members appointed to key positions within the UP Manila System, namely: Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez was chosen as Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio was appointed as the College Secretary of the UP College of Medicine.
Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo won the IBM award for “Scientist of the Year” – an award that did the Department of Pediatrics proud.
Once again, in 1991, all the various training programs were reviewed—from the second year to the residency and post-residency levels. A consensus was reached to reinstitute the compulsory clinical clerkship because of the observation that the interns are ill-prepared to assume full internship duties in pediatrics both in cognitive and psychomotor skills. The proposal was approved by the faculty council.
Modifications were made to improve both the training of residents and service to patients. An extra month of rotation in the Adolescent service as well as the creation of a separate PAS Service were approved. Written examinations became a major part of the evaluation of residents. The pre-residents were made to undergo a structured pre-residency program for one month. The Post-Residency Fellowship Committee proposed choosing a chief fellow to act as liaison. Research papers of graduating fellows were presented in a new conference called the “Fellows’ Hour.”
The interest in research continued on in 1991 with the initiative and support of the Research Committee. Along with the holding of the Residents’ Research Forum, this year saw the first Research Poster Contest as well as the creation of the award for the “Most Outstanding Resident in Research” for the one with the most output in research.
With regard to services, changes and revisions were proposed for implementation in order to improve the quality of patient care and services. With the increasing flux of patients with cardiac and pulmonary problems, separation of the two services with its own sets of residents was proposed and approved for implementation in 1992. Moreover, the cut-off age for pediatric patients was set at age 21 years.
On April 7, 1992, the C.H.I.L.D. (Child Health in Life and Development) Foundation, Inc. was launched at ceremonies held at the Westin Philippine Plaza with Dr. Mita Pardo de Tavera, then Secretary of Social Welfare, as guest speaker. The launching of the foundation was spearheaded by Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo. The officers were sworn in: Dr. Carmelita F. Domingo (President), Dr. Miguel F. Celdran (Vice-President), Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio (Secretary), Dr. Julius A. Lecciones (Asst. Secretary), Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz (Treasurer), Dr. Cynthia C. Juico (Asst. Treasurer), Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler (P.R.O.), and Dr. Bernadette J. Madrid (Executive Secretary).
Some of the Department’s faculty members were elected to key positions in the Philippine Pediatric Society. Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez was sworn in as President, while Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler assumed the position of PPS Secretary. Dr. Carmelita F. Domingo and Dr. Herminia L. Cifra were named Board Members and Dr. Joel S. Elises was named Secretary of the Hospital Accreditation Board.
During the 85th UPCM Foundation on June 10, 1992, Dr. Luis M. Mabilangan and Dr. Domiciana Dauis-Lawas were conferred the titles of Professor Emeritus. Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo was named UPAA Most Outstanding Alumnus.
A workshop-seminar to evaluate the different training programs was held on July 29-30, 1992 at the Astraphil Complex. Changes in the training programs were approved for implementation in 1993: (1) dissolution of the Sick Neonate Service; (2) creation of another general service; and (3) separation of PER and OPD rotations.
Nineteen ninety-three was ushered in by the First Interdepartmental Administrative Conference chaired by Dr. Carmelita F. Domingo. For the first time in the history of the UP College of Medicine and Philippine General Hospital, the Department’s missions and visions were shared by the Department Chair, Dr. Domingo. Aptly entitled “1992 and 1993: What Was and What Will Be,” this conference was attended by Dean Alfredo Ramirez and his staff, as well as by Director Felipe Estrella and his staff, and other department chairmen.
In March, the joint effort of the Departments of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Nursing, to promote breastfeeding was finally recognized when the World Health Organization (WHO) awarded the Baby-Friendly Hospital Award to the Philippine General Hospital in a ceremony held at the Malacañang Palace. The award strengthened the commitment of the hospital’s Breastfeeding Committee to promote, protect, and support breastfeeding.
On April 13, 1993, a groundbreaking ceremony marked the birth of the Jose Concepcion School for Chronically Ill Children or the Silahis ng Kalusugan. The RFM Foundation, Inc. donated a school building in the Pediatric Complex, which would also house a library and an audio-visual room.
The school became a reality largely through the efforts of the C.H.I.L.D. Foundation, Inc. It was also during this month that the Silungan ng Kabataan was established through the kind efforts of the members of St. Scholastica’s HS Class 1959. This two-bed facility was created to accommodate patients from far away places who need a temporary shelter while on follow-up at PGH for diagnostic or therapeutic procedures.
In May 1993, the Transition Nursery sponsored by the Makati Rotary Club at the third floor delivery room complex was inaugurated. This was established to provide immediate and adequate resuscitation measures for the newborn babies in critical condition.
The Pediatric Complex underwent major renovations starting July 1993. These included marble tiling of the consultants’ lounge, library, conference rooms, receiving room, and the chief residents’ rooms; painting of the ceilings, walls and doors; re-upholstery and remodeling of all existing furniture; and carpeting and installation of wall paper in the Chairman’s Office.
It was also in July that the department had every reason to celebrate when Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz was awarded as one of the Ten Outstanding Young Men (TOYM) 1992 for Medicine.
From August 1-6, the Department joined the hospital and the Breastfeeding Committee in the most successful celebration of the World Breastfeeding Week. Having been accredited as the first university Baby-Friendly Hospital in the Philippines, the PGH further strengthened its support for breastfeeding by winning first place in the Poster Exhibit held at the Department of Health.
In November of this year, Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo was officially sworn in as the new UP Manila Chancellor.
Nineteen ninety-four saw the realization of the Department’s objective of providing comprehensive pediatric care for its patients. The School for Chronically Ill Children or Silahis ng Kalusugan was inaugurated on February 18, 1994. Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo, the hospital
administration, the members of the C.H.I.L.D. Foundation, Inc., the Department Staff and Mr. Jose Concepcion and his family came to celebrate the occasion. To complement this school facility, the pediatric garden and playground was renovated with the help of the Birch Tree Milk Company, and was blessed on June 15, 1994.
To further improve the training of the residents and students and the service to the patients, major changes were implemented in 1994. Six general services were created with the subspecialty services evaluating and/or co-managing patients needing referrals. The cut-off age for pediatric in- and out-patients was finally set at 17 years and 364 days.
It was also in 1994 that Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez was sworn in as the new dean of the College of Medicine. Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio became concurrent Associate Dean for Academic Affairs and College Secretary. In 1998, Dr. Arcadio was sworn in as new dean of the College of Medicine, with Dr. Alberto Roxas of the Department of Surgery becoming College Secretary.
The book Pediatric Kidney Digest was formally launched this year. The first Pediatric Nephrology book published in the Philippines, this was authored by Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler, Dr. Dolores D. Bonzon, and Dr. Joel S. Elises. The book aims to help the students and other doctors as well in understanding the broad field of Nephrology in children.
The Department continued to offer yearly postgraduate and subspecialty courses as part of its commitment to continuing education of the pediatric specialist. In research, the Residents’ Research Forum was held yearly as a culminating event of the graduating residents. In 1995, due to the increasing number of fellows, and, subsequently their research outputs, the First Fellows’ Research Forum was held (replacing the Fellows’ Hour started in 1991). In the same year, an 11-year subscription to the CD-ROM MedLine was acquired and has continually been renewed.
To further improve the training of residents and service to patients, the residency program underwent several revisions from 1994 to 1999. The PER service was initially abolished, and the residents were made to rotate in the wards and ER at the same time. However, a year later (1995), the PER service was again separated from the in-patient service, to ensure better senior supervision and training at the PER. Residents however, would still man the outpatient clinic on their pre-duty days. In 1999, the PER and the OPD services became completely separate services, each having it’s own set of residents per month. The PER was previously manned mainly by first year residents, with supervision from two second year residents and one third year resident. 1999 marked the beginning of a transition to a second year resident - manned PER, recognizing that it is a very critical area, needing more experienced physicians.
In 1996, the reduction of the 3-month rotation in the Nursery to 2 months was approved; the one-month rotation in the Nursery ICU was incorporated in the third year level. Also approved were the following: (1) the reduction of the Pathology rotation from 2 months to 1 month; (2) some of the first year residents were given one-month Pay Ward rotations to meet the demands of the increase in pay admissions; and (3) an additional POD II was assigned to go on duty from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM at the PICU, which increased its bed capacity to ten beds. In 1997, this POD II back-up can now be assigned to any other area (Nursery, Pay Ward, PER) where he/she is most needed, upon the discretion of the POD III on duty.
The Department also has made several infrastructure changes, in line with its program to improve patient care and resident education. The Pediatric Research Laboratory (PRL), was inaugurated on June 15, 1994 as an activity in commemoration of UP President Emil Q. Javier’s investiture; it now houses the
research labs and offices of the Sections of Endocrinology, Infectious Diseases, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, and soon that of Allergy-Immunology.
The Philippine Association for the Gifted, Inc. (PAG), founded in 1994, formally opened its office on the mezzanine of Ward 11 on May 11, 1995. It aims to help in the opening up of more opportunities for the physical, mental, emotional, moral, and spiritual growth of the gifted child.
The Audio-Visual Room (AVR), formally opened on August 30, 1995 with the assistance of the C.H.I.L.D. Foundation, Inc., continues to serve as a venue for Department lectures, conferences, workshop-seminars, and other meetings.
The Multidisciplinary Child Life Unit (MCLU) or the Play Therapy Unit was inaugurated on August 14, 1996, through the generous support of the Elena Paez Tan Foundation, Inc. Hospitalized children were given a place where they can utilize their time productively, away from the depression of the hospital setting. It also allows children to be observed in their natural state of play, thus providing better insight into their behavior. The Unit also houses the Procedure Room, Treatment Room, 2D ECHO Room, and two small conference rooms on the mezzanine floor.
The Child Protection Unit was formally launched on January 22, 1997, with Dr. Bernadette J. Madrid as its Director. The unit aims to provide a comprehensive and coordinated care for abused children and their families to ensure their total well being and safety. It closely coordinates with other agencies such as the Department of Social Welfare and the Department of Justice. At present, it is temporarily housed in one of the specialty offices in Ward 11.
The Step-Down Care Unit, located in Ward 9, was also inaugurated on June 25, 1997. It is also called Kiko’s Room, after St. Francis of Assisi. What used to be the 2D ECHO Room was converted into a intermediate care nursery, where premature infants who are being observed for weight gain and for completion of medications are brought down from the Nursery ICU. This room was renovated through the kind efforts of one of the Department’s regular donors, Mr. Steve Lopez of the Santuario de San Antonio.
Dr. Carmelo Alfiler took over the helm of the department in February 1998. His first accomplishment was the re-organization of the department staff into more clearly defined levels of responsibility. The Executive Committee now included a Vice-Chair, three Assistant Chairs to head the Divisions of Academic Affairs, Research and Publications, and Patient Services, an Executive Assistant to handle Miscellaneous Activities, including Alumni and Resources, and the Chair of the Residency Training Committee. Re-organization spiraled down to all levels, with resulting greater participation even of students, nurses, and other auxiliary personnel.
Major accomplishments in 1998 included a Curriculum Workshop that reviewed and sought to re-direct the thrusts of the under- and post-graduate programs and a Rationalization Program for Post-residency Fellowship which led to more relevant, goal-oriented fellowship programs. The Evidence-Based Medicine Workshop, Professional Advancement Program for Alumni (ANPAP), and Tatsulok Community Development Project for Barangay Health Workers were all held for the first time. The Most Outstanding Consultant Award that gives recognition to deserving regular and clinical faculty was also launched. The Clinical Faculty Assistance Grant, which is accorded to consultants who are not receiving any form of compensation from the College or the hospital or research, was created. The first-ever department newsletter specifically geared for the alumni, the NISUS FORMATIVUS, was also launched in 1998. The library and other units were re-dedicated to pioneers in the field of Pediatrics: Drs. Eugene Stransky (library), Florencio Quintos (Subspecialty Complex), Artemio Jongco (Research Laboratories) and Alfredo Tupas (Audio-Visual Room). The Child Protection Unit (CPU) for abused children was inaugurated at its permanent home fronting the ER complex on December 4, 1998. And to
top off a productive year, several awards were reaped: the Most Distinguished Scientist Award given by the Philippine Heart Association to Dr. Luis Mabilangan; The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) award given by the Philippine Jaycees Senate and Insular Life Insurance Co, to Dr. Perla Santos-Ocampo; Outstanding Nephrologist A-One Award given by the Philippine Society of Nephrology to Dr. Carmelo Alfiler; Community Service Award (National) given by the UP Alumni Association To Dr. Carmencita Padilla; and Outstanding Research Group given by UP Manila to the Section of Gastroenterology and Nutrition. Several research awards were also won by the residents, fellows, and consultants in various for a. Most notable of which were those won by Drs. Judy Pipo and Jacinto Mantaring (First Place, PPS Annual Inter-hospital Research Contest); Drs. Marita Mimay and Jacinto Mantaring (First Place, Perinatal Association of the Philippines – Abbott Annual Research contest); and Drs. Wendy Estrellado and Jacinto Mantaring (First Place, Annual PGH Residents’ Research Forum).
1999 proved to be a year of many significant developments on the Academic front: In June, the two-track Residency Program of the UP College of Medicine and UP-PGH kicked off. The department’s graduate program was also begun, under the able leadership of Dr. Carmelita Domingo – the Master of Science in Clinical Medicine (Child Health) and Diploma in Clinical Medicine (Child Health) is a two-year course designed to create a learning environment intended to develop pediatricians into health managers with broader knowledge and extensive skills. It is expected that graduates of this program be able to develop curricular and instructional courses, undertake research and advance the growth of critical child health facilities. And for the first time in the country, a much-needed Convention on the Rights of the Child was held. Moreover, the second of a series of Curriculum Workshops, entitled “Critiquing the Enhanced Curriculum”, and a long-awaited Workshop on Fluids and Electrolytes were conducted. The latter’s aim to reach a consensus on fluid management between subspecialties was successfully attained. Also in 1999, the Section of Genetics, headed by Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla finally opened its doors to training and accepted applicants for fellowship in January 2000. Dr. Perla Santos-Ocampo ended her term as Chancellor of UP-Manila and was awarded the honor of Professor Emeritus. She was succeeded by Dr. Alfredo Ramirez of the Department of Surgery. On the Patient Services front: The first hospital-wide pediatric resuscitation program, dubbed Pedia 911 was launched. With the help of an Italian grant from Arci Cultura e Sviluppo, the NICU and PICU underwent major improvements in infrastructure. Also, the six-bed Intermediate Pediatric Care Unit at Ward 11 was inaugurated – this is an area for patients needing intensive care but who for one reason or another could not yet be accommodated at the Intensive Care Unit. The Division of Administrative and Miscellaneous Activities coordinated the birth of two new C.H.I.L.D. chapters – those of USA and the North/Central Mindanao. Other pioneering undertakings included a State of the Department Address (SODA) where the department chair summarized the previous year’s accomplishments and presented future plans and projects; an Acquaintance Party, and Quarterly Socialization and Recognition Ceremonies which serve to create, if not tighten, the bond among medical, paramedical, and administrative staff of the department; and a Quiz Show, which aims to uphold academic excellence and foster team spirit between residents and students of the general pediatrics services. The Annual Research Week was also institutionalized this year. It was also a year of reaping, as the department garnered numerous awards and recognitions. Among others, the department’s delegation to the PPS Residents’ Quiz Bee (Drs. Connie Castillo, Len Sanchez and Vince Faustino) garnered first place; Dr. Marissa Lagman, was named Most Outstanding Pediatric Resident and Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio was accorded the Most Outstanding Pediatrician award for 1998, both by the Philippine Pediatric Society; Dr. Wendelyn Estrellado did the department proud as she earned first place in the 1999 Annual PPS Research Forum.
The Challenge of the New Millennium was met head-on by the Department of Pediatrics. The accomplishments of the department in Year 2000 is best reflected on its recognition as The Most Outstanding Clinical Science Department and getting the much coveted UP Medical Foundation Silver Cup. Two publications, “Fluid and Electrolyte Management in Pediatrics Handbook” and “The Rights of the Hospitalized Child (Adapted from the Convention of the Rights of the Child”, which were both
products of intensive workshops, were launched in July and November, respectively. A newly formed linkage with PADOVA University of Italy, to be sealed by an “Immunodiagnostic and Immunotherapeutic Enhancement Program”, paved the way for further training of Dr. Arneil T. Suratos on Obstructive Sleep Apnea in the same country. A fellow and student from Kobe University of Japan have been accorded the chance to rotate for 3 months in the Sections of Infectious Diseases and Gastroenterology and Applied Nutrition. The first subspecialty Intensive Course, “The Intensive Course in Pediatric Pulmonology”, headed by Dr. Alexander O. Tuazon, was conceived during the year and has received excellent feedback from participants. The Two-Track Residency Program was fully implemented. With the help of benevolent donors, several infrastructures were either constructed or renovated, and inaugurated in Year 2000. These include the Intermediate Patient Care Unit (IPCU 9), Pediatric Clinical Nutrition Research and Service Facility (PCNRSF), Silid Kandungan at the Out-Patient Department, NICU and PICU (upgrading) and Jose Concepcion School for the Chronically ill (renovation). Upholding excellence in the fields of research and academics, the department carried on the awards reaped in 1999 which included the PPS Most Outstanding Resident (Dr. Cheryl Taruc-Libed), the 1st Place in the PPS Residents’ Quiz Contest (Drs. Connie Castillo-Sison, Len Sanchez, Vince Faustino), and the 1st Place in the PPS Interhospital Prospective Paper Contest (Dr. Corazon Estrella). Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler was elected PPS president.
The Department in the Year 2001 and Beyond
The relentless effort of the department to continually move forward and accomplish significant undertakings in keeping up with its goal to provide the best child health care to the greatest number of patients is far from exhaustion. With the unwavering support of its faculty, trainees and administrative staff, the department took another step forward by formulating the Departmental Management Action Plan (D-MAP) 2001-2003 under the leadership of its reappointed chair, Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler. In recognition of the big number of subspecialty sections (15 by the latest count) and fellows in training (50 per year on the average), the chair and chief fellow of the Post-residency Fellowship Training Committee started having representation in the Executive Committee.
The curriculum was revisited via the critiquing of the evolving Organ System Integration Concept for undergraduate medical education which implements the true spirit of the UPCM’s Intarmed Program. The Residency and Post-residency Fellowship Training Committees undertook rationalization of their respective programs/slots. As part of faculty development, Dr. Arneil Suratos completed a short course on sleep studies in Padova, Italy, and Dr. Marysia Tiongco-Recto would follow suit for another course on immunodiagnostic modalities. The department likewise saw an increasing number of holders and eligibles of PhD and MS degrees among faculty members.
The general postgraduate course entitled “Sense and Sensibility, Pride and Prejudice: Therapeutics To Enhance Practice” held on March 7-9, 2001 at the Manila Midtown Hotel was successful in terms of attendance and content feedback. An innovative immersion course in Neonatology “Forks In The Road: Plotting The Course From Birth To Discharge” featured case discussions, demos and return demos, and hands-on courses which were well-received.
The department launched the Postgraduate Pediatrics Journal and Compendium of Research Abstracts 1998-2000. It also reaped awards for the researches of Drs. Joseph Riego (2nd place, PPS Interhospital Research Contest), Edward Vincent Faustino (3rd place, PGH Residents’ Research Presentation), and Ann Bernadette de la Paz (1st Place, PGH Fellows’ Research Presentation).
Not to be outdone, our hardworking consultants added more feathers to their caps. Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler was elected Secretary General/President of the Asian Pediatric Nephrology Association for
2001-2007 after serving six years as Assistant Secretary for Asia in the International Pediatric Nephrology Association’s Executive Council. Dr. Bernadette J. Madrid was honored as one of “The Outstanding Women in the Nation’s Service”. Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz was elected President of the Philippine Heart Association. Dr. Amelia R. Fernandez bagged the PPS Outstanding Pediatrician Award for 2001.
The subspecialty sections developed new outreach activities such as the SSPE Support Group, Diabetes Awareness, and the School Health Program.
A steady stream of donors came our way, giving donations in cash and kind for equipment, medicines and food. The Migi’s Garden for in- and outpatients was spruced up.
Apart from existing social programs (acquaintance, quarterly socialization, Christmas parties, etc.), two teambuilding activities, a spiritual retreat, a sportsfest and brisk walking were organized for the benefit of the departmental community.
Year 2002 saw the re-accreditation of the department’s PPS Phase I, II, III training program mainly because of so many outstanding features in seven evaluation areas - administration, consultants, training program, patient services, research, facilities, community development and involvement. These features were summarized in Dr. Lifer’s State-of-the-Department Address (SODA) 2001-2002 on January 30.
In academics, there were many sessions all year round devoted to the development of the Organ Integration Curriculum. The self-evaluation cards (Pedicures) became standard learning instruments for Year Levels 4 – 7; these were being introduced in the 3-year residency program to test what knowledge and skills first through third year residents would acquire in the conference room, bedside and outpatient areas (reference: PPS Guide To Core Pediatrics). The 35th general postgraduate course “Bridging The Years: Experience Meets Evidence in Pediatrics” held on March 10-12 had a reasonably good turnout. Part III of the 4-part Developmental Pediatrics Series (ages 6-10 years; the school-age child) was realized. The 2002 subspecialty postgraduate course was themed “Shaking Off Pins and Needles in Pediatric Neurology”. The 15th Jose Albert Memorial Lecture was delivered by Prof. David Silence and was entitled “New Insights on Children’s Bone Health”. Numerous workshops/ seminars covered pediatric advanced life support, neonatal advanced life support, fluids & electrolytes, Integrated Management of Childhood Illnesses, ICD-10 orientation, Pedia 911 and epilepsy management.
Under faculty recognition, Dr. Carmelita F. Domingo was given a retirement testimonial on February 22. She was PPS Outstanding Pediatrician for 2002. Dr. Alfiler finished two years of national presidency of PPS, handing over the reins to Dr. Joel S. Elises at the close of the 39th Annual Convention on April 10. Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco scored a double whammy by getting the Outstanding Young Scientist and TOYM Awards. Many more faculty members/support staff were recognized by the College for excellence and leadership in various fields of endeavor locally and internationally. Outstanding consultants, fellows, residents and students were honored by the department in appropriate ceremonies.
On June 19, 2002, the department’s Executive Committee and CHILD Foundation, Inc. approved the conduct of a fundraising 6-hour telethon project for Sunday, September 29, 2002, Channel 9, for big-ticket equipment and supplies. This project would be alluded to as Give A Life later. The department handed over the project to PGH last December 23 for further management. A series of biomedical equipment users training workshops were held for improved patient service. Wards 9 and 11 were re-screened with the help of Aiza Seguerra. The DOTS and Anti-Rabies Unit were operationalized. The department participated in the DOH- & PPS-initiated Iwas Tigdas Program and Anti-Polio Campaign directed toward children in high-risk communities, the prelude to a nationwide program in 2004.
At the close of 2002, there were plans for the renovation of ERC 220 and the Pediatrics Office Complex, and for the construction of PGH Pedia.com and Library. PGH approved the Adolescent Transition Clinic Project with the department as lead unit (coordinator, Dr. Emma Llanto). There were also blueprints for the Breastmilk Bank (coordinator, Dr. Pura Flor Isleta) and a Lactation Unit (coordinator, Dr. Ma. Asuncion Silvestre).
Year 2003 will be remembered as one of the most challenging years for the Department of Pediatrics. This year concluded the term of Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler as the department’s chair for six golden years and we welcome the new administration headed by Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz. Amidst all the controversies the department has to deal with since the start of the year, in the end, we rejoiced with the appointment of our outgoing chair, Dr. Alfiler, as the new PGH Director.
Two books were launched at the start of the year, “Pediatric Resident’s Handbook” contains all about the Department and its administration, admission policies, rules and regulations and all you need to know about the pre-residency, residency and post-residency programs; “Pediatric Research Manual” includes the department’s research program, evidence-based medicine manual, guidelines on research methods and proposals. At the middle of the year, a third book, 2nd edition of “Pediatric Cardiology Handbook” by the Section of Pediatric Cardiology, was launched, gracing the event was the presence of Prof. Emeritus Luis M. Mabilangan, MD.
The 36th General Postgraduate Course entitled “Ped Xing: Keeping Kids Out of Danger” held March 5-6, 2003 at the Manila Midtown Hotel, delivered a digest of updated, comprehensive and most relevant information on identified ambulatory care and child protection issues. The 2003 Subspecialty Postgraduate Course coincided with the 20th Anniversary of the Department of Pediatrics Fellowship Training Program, it was decided to involve all subspecialty sections thus entitled “Breaking News in the Subspecialties: Multi-Organ Concerns”. Held last October 1-2, 2003 at a new venue, Westin Philippine Plaza, the course discussed frequently encountered multi-organ problems, the diagnosis and management through a team approach.
The year also concluded the Developmental Series, Part IV (Adolescence) headed by Dr. Rosa Ma. H. Nancho which was held last February 27-28, 2003 at the Discovery Suites. Once again, we had the Intensive Course on Pediatric Pulmonology last November 17-19, 2003 at AVR, Pedia Office Complex, PGH. Both courses were successful in terms of attendees and feedback of participants.
Several guests speakers and lecturers paid visit and shared their expertise with our department staff. Dr. Enrique M. Ostrea Jr. talked on Fetal Exposure to Environmental Toxicants: Philippine Setting during the UPMASA Professorial Lecture last March 10, 2003. Dr. Rajeshwar Dayal talked on updates on Typhoid Fever, TB and Leprosy and Dr. Randy Prescilla (Wayne State University) lectures on Diabetes Mellitus in Children last August. Towards the end of the year, we had Dr. Virginia Delaney-Black and Linda Chiodo, PhD (Wayne State University) for neurodevelopmental pediatrics topics and our former chief resident, Dr. Elizabeth Uong-Tan (Missouri, USA) reported on Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children. Our 16th Jose Albert Memorial Lecturer was Hon. Manuel H. Dayrit, MD who discussed “Health Policies in Childhood Infectious Diseases”.
Research cannot be far behind in terms of international recognition. Dr. Marilyn A. Tan (Neurology) bagged the Young Investigator’s Bursary Award, with her paper “Quality of Life Issues among Pediatric Epilepsy Patients and their Caregivers in a Tertiary Government Hospital”, during the 25th International Epilepsy Congress last October 2003 at Lisbon, Portugal. Likewise, research studies of Dr. Ma. Esterlita Villanueva-Uy (Neonatology), “The Use of the Polymerase Chain Reaction in Neonatal Candidemia” and “Application of the Polymerase Chain Reaction in Late Onset Sepsis”; and Dr. Theresa de Jesus-Pattugalan (Chief Resident), “The Effect of Noise Level on Physiologic Parameters of Newborn
Infants at the Nursery of the Philippine General Hospital” were presented during the Pediatric Academic Societies 2003 Annual Meeting last May 2003 at Seattle, Washington, USA. Some researches of consultants, fellows and residents subsequently entered for publication in local and foreign journals.
The Department’s Annual Research Week celebration was highlighted by poster display of all the research studies presented and won recognition in different international and national conventions. Our Neonatology fellows Drs. Ma. Corazon P. Estrella and Aurora Gloria A. Inguillo-Libadia won 2nd and 3rd place in Fellows’ Research Presentation during the PGH Research Forum. Research workshops such as Research Question Formulation and Evidence-Based Medicine Workshops were given to residents and concerned staff.
The department also had a significant role in the strengthening of Breastfeeding Campaign in our hospital. This includes the Human Milk Bank (headed by Dr. Pura Flor D. Isleta) and Lactation Unit (headed by Ma. Asuncion A. Silvestre) projects; and spearheading the successful World Breastfeeding Week celebration last August 1-7, 2003. The celebration was formally opened by Breastfeeding advocate celebrity mom, Ms. Maricel Laxa-Pangilinan, and the PGH Breastfeeding Committee was reintroduced to the body.
Workshops catered to training of our residents and fellows towards academic and clinical excellence included Comprehensive Asthma Management Program (CAMP), Seizure Management Workshop, Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) Workshops, Infection Control Practices and regular training seminars such as Lactation Management, PALS, Fluids & Electrolytes and EBM workshops. Team Building for the first and third year residents was also organized to improve camaraderie and working relationship within their batches.
Several improvements were made to the Pediatrics Office Complex. Internet access was installed within the office complex and a number of updated computers and printers were procured, this will facilitate literature search for the staff. A room situated at the 2nd floor of the office complex was renovated as a new conference room. The boardroom and chairman’s room were also renovated. A new LCD and laptop computer were procured for department’s use during official conferences.
Year 2004 proved to be a very busy year for the Department of Pediatrics. It marked the beginning of the term of Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz as Chair of the Department and that of the newly-appointed administration of the College of Medicine and the Philippine General Hospital. Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler commenced his term as PGH Director and with him were Dr. Herminia L. Cifra as Deputy Director for Fiscal Services and Dr. Benjamin P. Sablan, Jr. as Coordinator for Health Services. Dr. Dolores D. Bonzon was appointed Associate Dean of the UP College of Medicine and Dr. Aida M. Salonga became the College Secretary. Support for activities of the College of Medicine and PGH was unwavering.
Aside from these faculty members who were in secondment, other faculty members also had various administrative positions within the University of the Philippines Manila (National Institutes of Health), the College of Medicine, and the Philippine General Hospital. Thus, so as to meet the demands brought about by the implementation of the Organ System Integration and the preparations for the Centennial celebration in 2007, which both started this year, and to fulfill the thrusts of training, service, and research of the Department, a rationalization for additional faculty was formulated and submitted to the College of Medicine.
In order to meet the challenges that lay ahead, a Management Action Plan workshop was held on February 4. The faculty was reoriented to the mission-vision of the Department and that of the University of the Philippines, UP Manila, and the Philippine General Hospital, which became the basis for the
Department’s plans for 2004-2006. Commitment of the faculty was renewed and became evident in the percentages of consultant rounds and the feedback from students regarding preceptorials.
Reorganization of the Department took place. A fourth Assistant Chair was appointed for Training and was put in-charge of the residency and post-residency training programs and the postgraduate course committee, which were all previously under the Assistant Chair for Academic Affairs. Undergraduate, graduate, and circuit courses remained under Academic Affairs. A committee on Information Technology was created for the Department’s computerization program and the creation of a website. The Bioethics committee was revived to improve patient care and to make the residents more adept in dealing with ethical dilemmas.
Subspecialty services were revived on the basis of statistical data showing that majority of admissions in the pediatric wards requires referral to specialists; in-patient services created were Cardiology, Endocrinology/Metabolism/Renal, Gastroenterology and Nutrition, Hematology-Oncology, Infectious Disease, Neurology, and Pulmonology. General Pediatric services were reduced to five with six beds each; these include the Sick Neonate Service and a service devoted to Adolescent patients. This set-up has shown to improve efficiency in the management and disposition of patients and has allowed closer supervision and more interaction among service consultants and residents. The Out-Patient Department was strengthened with the presence of a consultant during each of the morning and afternoon clinics.
Departmental conferences were modified such that major conferences are now held on Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:00am – 9:00am. The House Staff Teaching Hour replaced the Monday conference at 8:00 am – 9:00 am. These modifications were implemented in order to provide more time for service activities and teaching rounds with the residents and students without compromising or interfering with the other responsibilities of the faculty (such as committee meetings, private practice, extension work). This schedule also enables the residents to attend to their patients and finish order rounds before conferences start; thus ensuring that the nursing staff is able to carry out orders more efficiently. Staff conferences by the first year residents were limited to 30 minutes each, which includes the discussion of the invited speaker. Evidence-based medicine was incorporated in staff conferences, grand audits, and service activities.
Lecturers and invited speakers this year included visiting UP alumni such as Drs. Leonardo Leonidas (General Pediatrics), Mariflor S. Jamora (Developmental Pediatrics), Enrique M. Ostrea, Jr (Neonatology), Ruby F. Rivera (Emergency Pediatrics), and Constancia S. Uy (Nephrology). Foreign speakers were Ruth Macklin, PhD (Ethics), Dr. David Paperny (Adolescent Medicine), Dr. Mammen Mammen (Infectious Disease), and Dr. Harlan Gephart (Developmental Pediatrics). Dr. Bonita Stanton, Professor and Chair of the Department of Pediatrics of the Children's Hospital of Michigan Wayne State University, was the guest speaker during the 17th Jose Albert Memorial Lecture.
New instructional activities were Vignettes by Emeritus Professors, Bimonthly Ethical Case Analysis, a Workshop on the Fundamentals of Antibiotic Use, and mini-lectures for students. In addition, the Department held workshops on Evidence-Based Medicine, Literature Search on the Internet, and construction of an Objective Structured Oral Examination for faculty who also had had lectures on how to make an Objective Written Examination.
The 37th General Postgraduate course “Maximizing Child Health and the Pediatrician’s Practice” and the Subspecialty Postgraduate course “Diseases of Circumstance in Pediatrics” were held at a new venue, Century Park Sheraton Hotel. An added feature to both courses was an interactive module wherein classic images composed of genetic syndromes, dermatologic lesions, x-rays, and hallmark physical examination findings were shown during lunch and the scheduled breaks. A contest was held in which
participants gave their diagnoses during the first day of each course. The answers along with a short explanation were presented on the second day.
Aside from the acquaintance party, the sportsfest, and the outing, the Department had various activities to improve communication and foster closer ties among consultants and residents. Dr. Ortiz initiated a series of dialogues with the residents within the confines of the hospital and get-togethers of the residents and consultants held at the home of Emeritus Professor Dr. Luis M. Mabilangan.
The staff was given opportunities for personal growth and development with activities such as a seminar on Power Dressing attended by faculty, residents, fellows, and students and a Values Clarification Workshop for the residents.
Several consultants received prestigious national awards. Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla received the Lingkod Bayan award from the Civil Service Commission. Dr. Jose Jonas D. del Rosario was the awardee for the Ten Outstanding Young Men 2004 for Medicine – Interventional Pediatric Cardiology. Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio came back from his Sabbatical leave with four awards - Outstanding Professional of the Year for Medicine given by the Professional Regulation Commission; Dr. Hermogenes A. Santos Memorial Award given by the Philippine Medical Association in recognition for outstanding work in Continuing Medical Education; Outstanding Professional Award in Education given by the University of the Philippines Alumni Association; and the Most Distinguished Alumnus given by the UP Medical Alumni Society. Dr. Arcadio was also a finalist for the Dr. Jose Rizal Memorial Award.
Dr. Joel S. Elises ended his term as President of the Philippine Pediatric Society but continued to serve as President of the Pediatric Nephrology Society of the Philippines. Faculty members who served as Presidents in their subspecialty societies include Dr. Madeleine W. Sumpaico (Philippine Society of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology) and Dr. Sioksoan C. Cua (Philippine Society of Pediatric Metabolism and Endocrinology). In international societies, Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz served as the President of the Asia-Pacific Society of Pediatric Cardiology while Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler continued his term as the Secretary-General of the Asian Pediatric Nephrology Association (AsPNA).
In academics, meetings were held by the different Learning Unit committees to finalize modules and instructional activities in preparation for the full implementation of the OSI curriculum, In order to facilitate the transition into the OSI curriculum and to address the concerns expressed by the students regarding their rotations, clinical rotations were revised. The ward rotation of the Year Level 5 students was removed while Year Level 6 students rotated at the wards for a month. The existing curricula of students was reviewed by the respective year level committees and several revisions were made in terms of learning activities with the addition of mini-lectures, the evaluation scheme and tools. Emphasis on attendance and notes was made.
In order to have closer supervision of students and a more meaningful consultant-student interaction, a single consultant is assigned to each block of students rotating at the wards and at the nursery. The consultant meets with the students at least once a week for preceptorials or case management (for the interns). At the OPD, the consultant of the day meets the year level 5 and year level 7 students. For Year level 6 students, in particular, emphasis is given to history and physical examination during the first week while fluids and electrolyte concerns are discussed on the second week. Any topic may be discussed during the last two weeks of their rotation.
The residency training program was reviewed in view of PPS requirements and Departmental concerns. The mandatory Pathology rotation was removed. A single rotator per month, preferably a third year resident, was assigned to rotate in both Developmental Pediatrics and Genetics. Residents were reassigned to the critical areas. The Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, which was previously manned by three
second year residents now have three first year residents and three third year residents. This has been done to provide more exposure to the NICU, thus conforming to the requirements of the Philippine Pediatric Society. The Pediatric Intensive Care Unit, which was previously manned by three second year residents now have three more third year residents. These changes allowed better supervision of the junior residents and better patient care with the increase in manpower. In a move to develop the residents’ critical eye and instill in them a greater sense of responsibility and urgency, several first year residents were assigned to the PER during the second half of the year.
The official time-in of the residents was moved to 7:00am to allow them ample time to finish morning order rounds before conferences start. Attendance was strictly monitored with the acquisition of a bundy clock.
The Intermediate Patient Care Unit in Wards 9 and 11 was previously under the care of General Pediatric Services. This year, IPCU patients became the direct responsibility of PICU residents. This has allowed the residents in the General Pediatric Services to handle more patients who do not require intensive care during office hours. At night, the residents in the General Pediatric Services/Subspecialty services are given the opportunity to handle these critically-ill patients under the supervision of the senior on duty.
In the past, patients at the Pediatric Emergency Room requiring admission were brought to the wards by the PER residents. So that the manpower in a critical area is not compromised when PER residents admit patients, residents of the service to which the patient will be admitted (or, after office hours, the first year resident on duty and the senior) proceed to the PER to receive endorsements and accompany the patient during transport to the wards. This also provides the residents of the service to give their inputs on the management of the patient while still at the PER.
The senior resident, having a keener eye for patients needed emergency care, has been put in-charge of the triage area at the Out-Patient Department.
A set of rules and regulations based on the Civil Service code and the rules of the University of the Philippines and the Philippine General Hospital was formulated with definite sanctions for demeanors specified. Criteria for merits and awards were set. In addition, residents with involvement in special projects or extra-curricular activities such as the choir were given corresponding merits.
The evaluation scheme of the residents was revised. Clinical performance is now based on service rotations (65% from 60%), examinations (25% from 10%), and chief residents’ evaluation (10%). Peer evaluation was removed. The Chair’s evaluation and previous year’s evaluation will be considered in determining the outstanding residents. The evaluation tool for staff conferences was revised. In preparation for the oral examination to be given to the residents, a workshop on objective structured oral exam was held in coordination with the Medical Education Unit with cases and evaluation tools as outputs.
With the medico-legal issues abound in the country and abroad, proper documentation of events and clinical data was emphasized. A lecture on making notes was given at the start of the year. A standardized format of the Pediatric Clinical History was distributed and a standardized format of notes for implementation beginning 2005 was created.
The two-year Post-residency Fellowship program in Rheumatology was revived this year, in conjunction with the Section of Rheumatology of the Department of Internal Medicine.
The research and publications arm of the Department was given renewed attention this year. Aside from the regular lectures on research methodology and making an effective presentation, and the research generation workshop, various activities were organized to strengthen mentoring and to improve the quality of research output of resident trainees and fellows. These activities include research capsules and research protocol presentations held in lieu of major conferences, a workshop on conducting a Literature Search on the Internet, and a lecture on Scientific Paper-writing, Criteria for the evaluation of research output were re-assessed and modified. Revisions in the research program to be implemented beginning next year were planned. Documentation and cataloguing of research output were done. In preparation for the revival of the Department journal, Postgraduate Pediatrics, award-winning papers of 2003 were distributed among the consultant advisers for their comments and revisions. A format for the research paper was provided for uniformity. A part-time statistician was hired for 1½ months and was available to consultants, fellows, and residents for consultation.
There were several publications in 2004 including a compendium of research abstracts from 2001-2003 which was launched with the 2004 compendium during the annual research week; 10 lay pamphlets/handouts by the Section of Endocrinology; and 6 papers in local and international journals with “A novel deletion creating a new terminal exon of the dihydrolipoyl transacylase gene is a founder mutation of Filipino maple syrup urine disease” by Silao CL, Padilla CD, Matsuo M. given the 2004 University of the Philippines International Publication Award. Other publications include: A Century of Women in the Health Sciences 1900-2000 AD by Dr. Padilla and Dr. Santos Ocampo, The Human Genome: Perspective and Applications, the Handbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Guidelines for Pediatric Cardiac Surgery, the revised Residents’ Handbook, and the Manual of Pediatric Out-Patient / Clinics and Child Health / Services.
Efforts to modernize the Department started with the establishment of Internet connection in the Department offices, subspecialty offices, and residents’ callrooms. Three computers were acquired for the residents and were put in the library. Construction of a Department website was started with plans of it being launched in February 2005.
The Pediatric wards underwent renovation in order to improve the physical lay-out and facilities and consequently provide better patient care in an environment that is more conducive to healing children. The inauguration of the newly-renovated Ward 11, which was completed through the sponsorship of the United Architects of the Philippines Central Business District Chapter and Ronald McDonald House Charities, took place on October 27, 2004. The renovation of Ward 9 and the Garden sponsored by Ms. Cathy S. Babao Guballa and ManuLife was commenced in December and is expected to be complete within January 2005. At the OPD, the conference/counseling room was also renovated with plans of setting up an Edu-Corner being finalized.
In Patient Services, the policies and guidelines in the Out-Patient Department and the Pediatric Emergency Room were revised in light of the 19-bed capacity of the newly renovated PER. The Department actively participated in the Ligtas Tigdas campaign of the Department of Health.
The Pangkabuhayan Project was initiated with the objective of providing watchers with the knowledge and skills necessary to augment their meager income. In cooperation with the Silahis ng Kalusugan, the Medical and Social Services, and the Dietary Department, lectures and demonstrations on cooking and other livelihood projects are held every week for the benefit of the watchers.
Plans were made for the conversion of the subspecialty area in Ward 11 into a Pediatric Diagnostic Center, which is going to be sponsored by the Lakan Bakor Foundation. Plans were also laid out to create a central audiovisual system for the two charity wards which would be used to provide children’s music to both areas.
The year 2005 will be remembered as a very eventful year for the Department of Pediatrics. Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz ascertained that there will be a smooth transition to his second year as chair of the department by presenting his goals and plans for the department during the year’s first Business Meeting. One of the first major activities planned was the Testimonial Dinner for awardees of 2004. In this activity, the department paid tribute to its members who have exhibited excellence in their chosen fields, who have inspired their colleagues with their exemplary leadership and service, and who have pioneered award-winning researches that have had national or global impact. The honorees in this event were Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla (recipient, Lingkod Bayan Award 2004), Dr. Jose Jonas D. del Rosario (awardee, Ten Outstanding Young Men 2004) and Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio (recipient, Award for Outstanding Professional of the Year for Medicine 2004, Dr. Hermogenes A. Santos Memorial Award 2004, Outstanding Professional Award in Education 2004, Most Distinguished Alumnus of the UP Alumni Society 2004; and finalist, Dr. Jose P. Rizal Memorial Medallion of honor).
The year 2005 also marked the hundredth year of existence of the College of Medicine, University of the Philippines. As one of the first clinical departments of the college, the Department of Pediatrics joined in the festivities by playing a very important role as head of the celebration for the month of February. The weekly theme of the activities, in line with that of the centennial celebration, were “Heritage, Healing, Humanity and Heroism,” respectively.
To start off the activities for Heritage Week, a Photo Exhibit with the theme “100 Years of Pediatrics” was opened at the UPCM lobby on February 2. A Photo Contest entitled, “ Ang Pediatrician sa Mata ng Madla” was also launched. The laying down of the Time Capsule at Migi’s Garden was the landmark activity for the 2nd second week. The third week was made memorable by the Centennial Lecture of Prof. Amelia R. Fernandez at the UPCM Basic Science Lecture Rooms. The centennial lecture was attended by consultants, fellows, residents and students from all departments, as well as several UPCM alumni.
Ward 9 and Migi’s Garden, which underwent renovations in 2004 through the generosity of Manu Life Philippines and Ms. Cathy Guballa, were inaugurated on February 21, 2005. The ward sported a brighter look with its multi-colored murals and pastel palette. New additions to the ward included an enclosure for the IPCU area and a bigger Kiko’s room for the sick neonates which now held breastfeeding chairs for the mothers. A direct exit to Migi’s garden was also made, making it more accessible for ward patients and their caregivers to enjoy the outdoor area. As Ward 9 reopened, the subspecialty services were revived.
For the first time, the Department held an Appreciation Dinner this year to honor the pharmaceutical companies who have untiringly given their support to the Department and its activities. This special event was held at the plush EDSA Shangri-la Hotel in Mandaluyong on February 24.
To cap off the month-long event, an afternoon tea party was held to honor the department’s donors who have been generously giving contributions to help the pediatric charity patients. The other activities during this month included film shows, free clinics and lay fora. The subspecialty services were in charge of these activities.
In academics, several sessions were held by the different Learning Units all-year round in preparation for the evolving Organ System Integration Curriculum. Revisions in the clinical rotations, learning activities, and evaluation schemes which were started in 2004 were again implemented this year. To keep up with the demand for more manpower in the OSI Curriculum, the College of Medicine granted the Department its request for additional faculty members. Thus, this year, the Department welcomed seven consultants in its faculty: Dr. Francisco E. Anacleto, Jr., Dr. Mary Ann R. Castor, Dr. Julia C. de
Leon, Dr. Corazon P. Estrella, Dr. Ma. Cecilia C. Galang, Dr. Edilberto B. Garcia Jr, Dr. Aurora I. Libadia, Dr. Marimel R. Pagcatipunan, Dr. Caridad M. Santos, and Dr. Ma. Concepcion C. Sison.
This year, the consultants renewed their commitment to regularly go on rounds in the in-patient services. They were also re-oriented of their assignments with regards to students’ preceptorials. A centralized scheduling was devised by Dr. Juliet O. Sio-Aguilar, Assistant Chair for Academic Affairs, to make possible the efficient and effective conduct of ward preceptorial sessions for Academic Year 2005-2006. Each faculty was assigned the equivalent of a four-week stint with students from any one of year levels 5, 6, or 7. This entailed that the consultants shall meet with their assigned group of students at least once a week. In addition to these, the consultants also held lectures and preceptorials in Learning Units 3 and 4.
There was closer monitoring of residents and students in the Out-Patient Department because one consultant was assigned to be present at each of the morning and afternoon Sick Child Clinics.
A few modifications were also implemented with regard to the residents’ rotations. This year, second year residents who were rotating in the general pediatrics services, subspecialty services, or CPU went on duty as ER triage officers from 6 pm to 4 am on weekdays and 2 pm to 4 am on weekends. Aside from going on duty as ER triage officers, they also went on duty as back-up triage officers from 5 pm to 8 pm on weekdays and 2 pm to 7 pm on weekends. This was done to facilitate easier disposition of patients at the expected peak hours of consultation beyond office hours. In the middle of the year, the weekday back-up triage duty was abolished since by this time of the year, more second year residents were going on duty as POD II in Wards 9 and 11.
The OPD triage, previously manned by a senior resident, has now been centralized to the general triaging area of the OPD. This change was instigated by the Department of Out-Patient Services.
The third year residents’ Community rotation likewise underwent major changes. This year saw the conclusion of our formal linkage with the Malate Catholic School, Reception and Study Center for Children (RSCC) and the Creche School. A new partnership was made with the Aurora A. Quezon Elementary School and the residents’ rotation in this school commenced in July. The tie-up with Asilo de San Vicente de Paul continued.
For the fellows and rotators from other departments, acquisition of bundy cards was done to monitor their attendance and punctuality objectively.
The 38th Postgraduate Course in General Pediatrics entitled, “Hearty, Healthy, Happy Kids,” was held on March 3 and 4 at the Grand Ballroom of the Century Park Hotel with Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz as its Program Director. The theme of the course was preventive pediatrics. An added feature to this course was the workshop on immunization that participants found to be very practical and informative. In general, feedback revealed an excellent crop of lecturers and well-prepared lectures.
Likewise, the Subspecialty Postgraduate Course was a success. It was held on September 1 and 2 at the Century Park Hotel with Dr. Eva Maria Cutiongco-de la Paz again as its Program Director. Entitled, ”Sessions in Pediatric Emergencies,” this postgraduate course boasts of having the most number of participants in the 38-year history of the Department’s postgraduate course offering, with a total of 796 registered participants. The well selected topics used a symptom-based approach in the management of common pediatric emergencies. Included were updated approaches in the management of shock, altered mental status, asthma exacerbations, surgical emergencies, suicide in the adolescent, lactation, and common neonatal emergencies. An innovation in this activity was an interactive session with keypads for
answering questions given to selected attendees. The postgraduate course was well-attended by pediatricians, general practitioners, emergency medicine specialists, as well as paramedical personnel.
Several consultants from other departments and hospitals gave lectures on topics in their fields of expertise. Dr. John Chan (Philadelphia, USA) and Dr. Enrique Ostrea, Jr. gave a series of lectures on neonatology at the first and third quarters of the year. Bioethical issues were given attention this year, with lectures on several topics like “Ethical Issues in the Workplace” given by Dr. Patrick Moral (UST), “Authorship of Research Papers” by Dr. Jose Ma. C. Avila (UPCM), “Legal Issues and Procedures in the Management of Child Abuse Cases“ given by the Child Protection Unit, with Senior State Prosecutor Lilian Doris Alejo as a guest speaker, and “How to Get Consent for Autopsies“ by Dr. Racquel Fortun. Other special conferences this year focused on topics that are of special interest to pediatricians. These were “Common Pediatric Dermatologic Conditions” (Dr. Marie Eleanore O. Nicolas, PGH Dept. of Medicine, Section of Dermatology), “Music Therapy” (Dr. Genesis Rivera, PCMC), “How to be an Expert Witness” (Atty. Katrina Legarda), Policy Statements in Pediatrics (Dr. Carmencita D. Padilla), and “Pain Management in Children” (Dr. Monalisa L. Dungca). The speaker for the 18th Jose Albert Memorial Lecture entitled, ”The Mental Health of Children Aged 0-6 Years” was Dr. Tilman H. Furniss, a professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (Department of Psychiatry, Munster University Hospital, Germany).
The Department of Pediatrics spearheaded this year’s celebration of World Breastfeeding Week from August 1 to 5. The Breastfeeding Committee, headed by Dr. Ma. Asuncion A. Silvestre, ventured into a landmark activity-- a live painting session entitled, “The Breastfeeding Mother and Child: An Afternoon with the Masters” held at the Sentro Oftalmologico Jose Rizal. This commendable enterprise gathered achievers in the Filipino art world: National Artist for Sculpture Napoleon Abueva, Anita Magsaysay Ho, Araceli Limcauco Dans, Juvenal Sanso, Gig de Pio, Celia Diaz-Laurel, Cocoy Laurel, Teresita Sarmiento Duldulao, Phyllis Zaballero, Aladin Antiqueño, Janice Luison Young, Angelo Baldemor, Lell Baldemor, Tito Sanchez, Socorro Paterno and Clarissa Perez. Breastfeeding moms and their babies posed as models in Filipiniana costumes. The artworks produced were sold at an auction in the Pediatrics office. The proceeds of the auction will be used to finance the breastfeeding initiatives of the Lactation Unit of the Section of Neonatology.
In line with the department’s thrust to institutionalize research, several developments were made to assist the residents, fellows and consultants with their researches. The lecture on Literature Search on the Web which was used to be conducted in the department was now given as part of the Core Curriculum for first year residents by the PGH Office of the Deputy Director for Health Services. In addition to workshops on evidence-based medicine, research question generation, research capsule, a Research Protocol Writeshop was conducted for the consultants to facilitate the generation of research protocols that will hopefully be started within the year. For this activity, a part-time statistician was hired by the department. Thereafter, a research assistant was employed by the department to help the consultants with the finalization of their research protocols. The evaluation tools for the residents’ research were also reviewed and revised.
The highlight of the department’s research activities was the 2005 Annual Research Week which was celebrated from November 7 to 11. The activity commenced with the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the poster exhibit which was participated upon by 23 residents and 12 fellows. This was followed by messages from Chancellor Ramon L. Arcadio, UPCM Dean Cecilia V. Tomas, and PGH Director Dr. Carmelo A. Alfiler. Five consultants presented their researches which were either completed or ongoing studies. Five residents and six fellows presented their papers during their respective oral contests. For the residents’ and fellows’ fora, the top 3 research papers for each were chosen and given certificated and cash prizes. Special awards were also given to the top 3 research posters for the fellows and residents.
Publications in 2005 included the Compendium of Research Abstracts, the Nisus Formativus, and the Handbook of Pediatric Infectious Diseases. Several papers were also published in internationally and locally. Revisions for other previous publications, such as the Fluids and Electrolytes Manual, are also underway.
Efforts for the physical improvement of the areas covered by the Department continued well into 2005. With the charity wards now operating in full capacity, new policies were instituted regarding the siesta time, buffer beds and borrowed beds. Starting in March, a “siesta time” between 1:00 to 3:00 PM daily was implemented. This meant a protected time period for patients to have their rest, during which time doctors’ rounds, procedures and monitoring (except for critical or unstable patients) were to be avoided. Policies for buffer beds and borrowing of beds were instituted in response to the reduction of the PER bed capacity to 19 from a previous bed capacity of about 50-70 in the renovated Emergency Room Complex. To accommodate patients who needed just a blood transfusion or a procedure like phlebotomy or lumbar tap, and thus expected to have a short hospital stay, 3 buffer beds in each ward were provided. Borrowing of beds were also allowed in order to facilitate admission of patients from the PER to the wards.
The second quarter of the year saw the reimplementation of the cohorting scheme, which had been temporarily suspended in 2004 because of the ward renovations. This scheme, formulated by the Section of Infectious and Tropical Diseases in Pediatrics (INTROP), served to help reduce the number of nosocomial infections among patients.
During the last quarter of the year, the Pediatric Office Complex was renovated. The old faculty lounge was refurbished into a much more functional boardroom. The lounge was relocated to the area in front of the old library. The library was remodeled to give way to the computers with internet access which the staff can use, with a quaint reading area on one side. The old boardroom was converted into an area with cubicles for the assistant chairs. The newly-renovated Pediatrics Office Complex is now a more dynamic place, with more areas available as venues for meetings, preceptorials, small group discussions, and even recreation. During this time, final preparations were also made for the renovation of the Pediatric Subspecialty Diagnostic Complex in between Wards 9 and 11. Sponsored by Lakan Bakor, the construction was slated to commence in September, but was later postponed to January 2006. This complex will house the different diagnostic services of the department, including echocardiography, electroencephalography and spirometry, to name a few, and the offices of the different subspecialties. Together with the renovation of the Pediatric Office Complex and the painting of the office complex mural, this was one of this year’s major infrastructure projects of the department’s present chair, Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz.
The year would not end without the Department adding a feather or two to its cap. November 2005 marked the beginning of the term of Dr. Ramon L. Arcadio as Chancellor of UP Manila, and Dr. Lulu C. Bravo as Vice Chancellor for Research and NIH Director. This year, Dr. Aida M. Salonga was elected president of the Asian Oceanian Child Neurology Association (AOCNA). Dr. Bernadette O. Madrid also became the first Asian regional president of the International Society for the Prevention of Child Abuse and Neglect (ISPCAN).
The department also chose two of its members to receive the Most Outstanding Consultant Award. This year, the award was given to Dr. Emma A. Llanto and Dr. Juliet O. Sio-Aguilar during the Residents’ and Fellows Commencement Exercises. Similarly, awards were also given to residents who had exemplary performance for this year. Dr. Kathleen Anne C. Abat (first year resident) and Dr. Sonny Cyrus T. Bata (second year resident) both received Certificates of Merit. Incoming Chief Resident Dr. Christina L. Cifra was named Outstanding Resident.
The year 2006, marking the first half of the six-year term of Dr. Edgardo E. Ortiz as chairman, was a very productive and milestone-filled year. The year began with full implementation of the department’s newly-revised department administrative system, and an updated manual of operations continaining newly revised protocols governing department processes and procedures. This new manual of operations was published together with the that of the other departments, to join in a collective PGH manual of operations. Throughout the year, administrative functions were also closely scrutinized and altered as needed to suit current demands, and special emphasis was placed on the supervision of undergraduate and postgraduate training programs, as key personnel were identified to lead the department in terms of academic affairs. Under the leadership of Dr. Juliet O. Sio- Aguilar, the Assistant Chair for Academic Affairs, teaching and supervisory roles of the faculty were streamlined as the department joined the UP College of Medicine in the continued implementation of the Organ System Integration (OSI) undergraduate curriculum. The result was a more comprehensive faculty schedule with better supervision in all department areas, which was most evident in the out-patient department. For 2006, Learning Unit 5 was successfully launched through the efforts of the LU 5 Committee, headed by Dr. Alexander O. Tuazon, Dr. Marysia T. Recto, Dr. Julia C. De Leon and Dr. Caridad M. Santos. Although some transitional difficulties were encountered during the shifting period from Year Level 5 to LU 5, the department has fared well and was generally successful in introducing the LU 5 course. There was encouraging feedback, and constructive suggestions were taken to heart as ways for improving the program further.
Postgraduate training of the pediatric resident and post-residency staff underwent a period of re-evaluation since the re-introduction of subspecialty service beds, while maintaining the general pediatrics services. The Residency and Post-residency Training Committee worked closely to improve and revise this system as necessary, reviewing resident and fellow rotation and area assignments as needed. In 2006, the department experienced some difficulties in terms of manpower as several residents dropped out of the Residency Training Program for various reasons. The year started with 75 residents, however this number was reduced to 73 by the end of the year, resulting in the need for some revisions in scheduling the residents’ rotations, with some areas getting less manpower than it has been accustomed to. However, the department continued with its efforts to produce excellent pediatricians in spite of these minor setbacks and the year was full of revitalized daily conferences for the medical staff with a great variety of staff conferences, new case hours, bioethics reviews, house staff teaching hours and special lectures. These were complemented by periodic workshops and seminars held by the department for the benefit of the residents and fellows. As an incentive for residents to strive to excel, the department continues to recognize exemplary performance of its trainees by giving the Dr. Perla D. Santos Ocampo Most Outstanding Resident Award to the graduating resident with the highest cumulative grade by the end of November of their third year. A nominal financial incentive and commemorative plaque is also given to the awardee. For 2006, Dr. Sonny Cyrus R. Bata was chosen to be the recipient of this award. Aside from Dr. Bata, the exemplary performance of Dr. Victoria Dominique C. Ang, a first year resident, was also recognized as she was awarded a certificate of merit for being an Outstanding Resident of her year level.
The 39th General Pediatrics Postgraduate Course was held on February 16 and 17, 2006 at the Century Park Hotel Manila with Dr. Jose Jonas D. Del Rosario as the program director. Entitled “Diseases, Drugs, Decisions”, the course focused on management issues in child health care, and aimed to resolve common controversies in clinical pediatric therapeutics. On August 30 and 31, 2006, the department once again sponsored its annual Subspecialty Postgraduate Course entitled “Across Borders: Childhood Infections in the Subspecialties” which was once more held at the Century Park Hotel Manila with the same program director, Dr. Jose Jonas D. Del Rosario. The course aimed to present and discuss various infections in the pediatric subspecialties, with relevant updates on their diagnosis and management. Both postgraduate courses were well-attended not only by pediatricians, but also by general practitioners, school physicians, government physicians and nurses, who all gave excellent feedback.