Twenty Medical Fellows and 94 Postgraduate Interns took centerstage during the 43rd Postgraduate Interns and 25th Fellows Graduation Ceremonies held last July 31, 2025, at the CGHMC Auditorium.
The graduating Medical Fellows hailed from different sections, including CT scan, MRI and Ultrasound; Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism; Gastroenterology; Advanced Endoscopy ERCP; Nephrology; Hematology; and Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine.
In his welcome remarks, Dr. Samuel Ang, CGHMC Medical Director, said that “we’ve been successful in upgrading our training facilities,” and issued an invitation for the graduating interns to apply as residents upon passing their board exam and for the fellows to return as consultants, as they are most welcome.
CGHMC President and CEO, Mr. Kelly Sia, advised the graduates to serve with compassion, competence, and commitment — “these as guiding principles that shape our actions, inspire our service, and are the legacy passed down from generations of healthcare practitioners.”
“Today we celebrate a milestone in your medical journey — you are stepping into a lifetime of learning, service, and purpose.”
Mr. Sia urged them to carry these values and let their competence be sharpened by curiosity, to continue learning, and to stay open to the evolving landscape of medicine that advances healthcare around the world.
Chairman Antonio Tan of the Philippine Chinese Charitable Association, Inc. (PCCAI) shared that there will be moments of doubt: “Remember why you chose this path. You are not alone on this journey — you are now part of a larger community, one that is built on teamwork, shared knowledge, and support.”
As doctors, he said, there will be moments of trials and loss. His advice: “Embrace each experience with humility and never lose sight of the ultimate objective — to heal.”
The special guest for the Commencement Speech was introduced by the Chair of the Department of Medical Education and Research (DMER), Dr. Julie Li-Yu. As the Acting Branch Manager of PhilHealth Regional Office NCR North Manila, Ms. Mae Rebenito Villa brought with her extensive experience from her years of service in PhilHealth.
Her questions to the graduates were:
“Why did you choose the path where you are now? What does your white coat mean to you? What do you think your white coat means to your family, friends, and the community?”
She also mentioned the role of doctors as crucial to the success of Universal Health Care.
“Doctors’ role goes beyond treating patients — you also have the social responsibility to make a meaningful dent in the Philippine healthcare system that will impact the country’s economy.”
“Your journey today is your story, but you are also a part of your patients’ story — and you must ensure that it’s a beautiful one through meaningful encounters and sincere human connection.”
She urged the graduates to remember that beyond the glamour of their white coat, they have a deeper calling to serve the community — that service is a form of power: a power to break barriers and to transcend social inequities. “So, wield it. Use it to create a ripple effect not only on patients but also on the country’s healthcare system.”
In closing, Ms. Villa shared a prescription:
“C is for compassion and empathy. Take as many doses as needed.
G is for gratitude and thankfulness. Take once every morning and once before bedtime.
H is for human connection and sincerity. Take one for every patient you encounter.”
After the heartwarming messages from the speakers, the awarding of the Plaques of Appreciation followed. Recognition was given to notable research papers of interns and fellows, as well as winners of the 8th Intersectional Senior Fellows’ Research Paper for 2025.
Words of Gratitude on behalf of the Postgraduate Interns were delivered by Dr. Aldwin Francis Layug, followed by his presentation of the feedback survey on interns’ training experiences and intent to return to CGHMC for residency.
Dr. Julie Li-Yu thanked all the parents and guests, and congratulated all the graduates in her closing remarks.
