PSU SCHOOL OF MEDICINE FINALLY SIGNS MULTI-LATERAL MOA WITH PGP- DOH-ONP: A FINAL MILESTONE TO ACCREDITATION AND PERMIT TO OPERATE
Updated July 10, 2023
June 6, 2023 – The Palawan State University, in a hybrid-mode star-studded Stakeholders Forum, forged its partnership and collaboration with the Local Government Unit in compliance with CHED’s request to submit evidence to prove the sustainability of the Ospital ng Palawan as the ultimate Level 3 base hospital for its School of Medicine beyond its partnership with UP-PGH Medical Center.
The Palawan State University – School of Medicine hosted the Stakeholders Forum, which brought together numerous stakeholders who have, in one way or another, provided support to the landmark establishment of the first-ever Medical School in the Region. The University Officials, led by the Chair-Designate of the University’s Board of Regents, Comm. Jo Mark M. Libre, Commissioner of the Commission on Higher Education(CHED), and the University President, Dr. Ramon M. Docto, as well as the Vice-Presidents and Top Officials, are meeting with government officials from the City and the Province, as well as other partner agencies, medical institutions, and other stakeholders. The said forum was also graced with the presence and keynote participation of the Chair of the Commission, Prof Popoy De Vera. This is part of the much-anticipated opening of the PSU School of Medicine.
In 2020, the Board of Regents granted authority to President Ramon M. Docto to offer the Program of Doctor of Medicine by virtue of BOR Resolution 387. In 2022, with the appointment of Dean Helen Sigua, the SOM passed the CHED Technical Panel for Medical Education with UP-PGH Medical Center as the interim base hospital (while ONP is on its way to upgrading from Level 2 to Level 3.) Last February 2023, the Commission requested LGU documents for PSU to submit pieces of evidence of LGU collaboration for ONP as the ultimate base hospital.
After a series of multi-level round table discussions by Dean Sigua across various stakeholders concerned from January to May 2023, with the assistance of all Legal Offices of PSU, Sanggunian, DOH, and Office of the Solicitor General, the multi-lateral MOA was finally drafted and approved by all parties.
Thus, this event essentially was a ceremonial signing of this MOA, as well as a way of thanking all other external stakeholders from Senate Pia Cayetano to all congressmen, governors, mayors, government agencies, regional, provincial, and city health officers of the region and Puerto Princesa City, who helped materialize and harmonize this School of Medicine project with all the collaborators.
This prestigious Stakeholders Forum was held at one of Palawan’s finest premier Function Halls, in Best Western Plus The Ivyall Hotel Puerto Princesa City Palawan.
The Masters of Ceremonies were inspirationally delivered by SOM Faculty Doctor couple Ruth and Jeremiah Gemarino, natives of Palawan, a pediatrician, and cardiologist respectively. Their shared commitment to medicine, their deep connection to their native Palawan, and their loving partnership bring a unique energy to this event. With their warm presence and expertise, they will guide us through this gathering with grace and a genuine enthusiasm for collaboration and progress.
CHED Mimaropa Atty Joselito Alisuag, who has been one of the pioneering minds more than a decade ago for a medical school together with JCA and PSU Ex-President Jeter Sespeñe, virtually gave a memorable history of how PSU-SOM was created. Our immense gratitude for their willingness to share their experiences, wisdom, and the remarkable journey that has paved the way for the medical school’s success. Their contributions inspire us all, reminding us of the power of vision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to making positive changes in our society.
PSU Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Elucila Sespeñe jumpstarted the 4-hour dinner fellowship with a warmest welcome message. Her dedication to academic excellence and her unwavering commitment to the growth and development of our institution has been truly inspirational. As Vice President for Academic Affairs, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape, ensuring that our students receive a holistic and transformative learning experience.
On behalf of the Provincial Government of Palawan, Honorable Governor Dennis Socrates in his keynote speech, with his ever-gallant smile and vibrant responses, reiterated his all-out support for PSU School of Medicine. Governor truly understands the importance of investing in education and healthcare. He recognizes that a strong medical school is vital for the future of Palawan, as it produces skilled healthcare professionals who will contribute significantly to the well-being and prosperity of the province.
Engr. Jericho Padrones of the PSU Planning Office presented the Strategic Plan crafted with the PSU-SOM Mancom and SOM Faculty vis-a- viz the Work & Financial Plan, guided by AACCUP President Milabel Ho & Futurist Emmanuel de Guia. His keen understanding of strategic planning and his commitment to excellence, have played a vital role in shaping the future of SOM. Through his presentation, he unveiled a comprehensive Work & Financial Plan that sets the course for the growth and success of our esteemed institution.
Doctor Dean Helen Sigua gave an overview of PSU SOM’s unique mandate on medical education, the overall strategic framework of the school juxtaposed with its curricular map, guiding universal healthcare models, 3-pillar sciences of the basic, clinical, and health systems sciences, its alignment with existing national health frameworks, and the emphasis for the need for collaboration among stakeholders in the new normal post-pandemic. Her expertise and profound understanding of medical education delivered an enlightening presentation that showcased the distinct mission and vision of PSU SOM. She highlighted the strategic framework that underpins the educational journey of our aspiring medical professionals, demonstrating how the curriculum aligns with the latest healthcare models and national health frameworks.
The PSU-SOM Faculty presented their journey of completing a family-like roster of competent local practitioners with their impressive credentials and drive to team-teach and role-model the curricular thrust of the school of medicine. Their inspiring journey and remarkable individual stories match their unwavering drive and commitment in the coming years.
In addition, Atty. Jocelyn Fabello-Gimpaya presented the salient points of the MOA and the roles and responsibilities of each party, together with the attachment of ONP’s Hospital Development Plan towards Level 3 Upgrade by 2023-2028. This comprehensive plan encompasses strategic initiatives and targeted milestones that will enable the hospital to enhance its capabilities and provide a higher level of care to the community.
President Ramon Docto gave a tribute speech on the vital role of academe as an objective catalyst for collaboration and sustainability. It was his pride to be able to do all the significant milestones of SOM’s birthing pains during his 2 terms. He emphasized the importance of fostering partnerships, both within the institution and with external stakeholders, to promote meaningful cooperation and achieve long-term sustainability in the field of education and healthcare.
The ceremonial signing of the multi-lateral MOA took place, with representatives from 4 key institutions, witnessed by the PSU officials, administrators, faculty members, and other awardees. DOH Mimaropa Regional Director Dr. Mario Baquilod, ONP Director Dr. Melecio Dy & Dr. Audie Cipriano have pre-signed the MOA even prior to the ceremonial rites. This signifies a unified commitment towards a shared vision of enhancing healthcare services and advancing medical education. The representatives from each institution will play a crucial role in fostering fruitful collaborations, promoting knowledge exchange, and maximizing resources for the betterment of our community.
Dean Sigua gave a toast of cheers to all collaborators and to the upcoming opening of the SOM. Her strong dedication and visionary leadership stand before us as a beacon of inspiration. Her passion and tireless efforts have been pivotal in shaping the PSU-SOM into a reality. Today, we raise our glasses in recognition of her remarkable achievements and the immense gratitude we feel toward her.
Heartfelt appreciation to CHED Commissioner Jo Mark Libre, who virtually wrapped up everything with a very motivating and strengthening message of his unwavering support and reassurance, that with persistence, we may be seeing the light at the end of the tunnel. His presence and uplifting words have left a lasting impact on our hearts and minds, igniting a renewed sense of purpose and unity among us all.
PSU Vice President for Finance and Administration Dr. Amabel Liao closed the event with an undeniably impactful question, “Is this already it?” The closing of this event marks a transition, but it is not the final destination. It signifies the end of one chapter and the opening of another. It is a reminder that there is still much work to be done, challenges to overcome, and milestones to be achieved thereby concluding our Multi-lateral MOA Stakeholders Forum to an end.