The Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO) brought together minds, hearts, and healing hands during its 23rd Midyear Convention, held from April 24–27, 2025, held at the iconic Baguio Country Club. This year’s theme, “UMALI KAYO!” – Update. Manage. Associate. Lead. Inspire., aptly coined from the Cordilleran dialect which means “welcome” – captured the essence of this momentous event: one of growth, camaraderie, and purpose.
Spearheaded by Dr. Josephine P. Contreras-Tolentino, together with a dedicated team of medical oncologists from the Northern Luzon, the convention delivered an enriching experience that blended cutting-edge medical oncology updates coupled with cultural immersion and community bonding.
A Grand Opening with Cultural Pride
The event commenced with the warmest welcome and a vibrant showcase of Baguio’s rich and deep cultural heritage. The opening ceremonies featured the performance of the Igorot Ballangbang, an indigenous traditional dance performed by the natives of the Mountain Province particularly the Bontoc and Applais tribes, involving rhythmic movements accompanied by the sounds of gangsa (flat gongs), symbolizing victory, courage, and unity. The delegates were one in joining the celebration, embracing the cultural experience with much enthusiasm and respect.
The focal point of the day’s activity were several key lectures that tackled timely and compelling topics such as: Ensuring Safe and Quality Medicines as delivered by Ms. Maria Cecilia Matienzo of the FDA Center for Drug Regulation and Research, Integrating Breast Cancer Screening and Genomics in the NICCA Law ably lectured by Dr. Florge Francis Sy, and The Economics of Cancer Treatment in the Filipino Context by Dr. Jan Aura Laurelle Llevado, Chief of the Cancer Control Division of the Department of Health. Focal point was a lecture on Regognizing the Role of Oral Drugs in Metastatic Colon Cancer delivered by Dr. Gerardo Tomas Cornelio.
Deep Dives into Liver Cancer, Access, and Ethics
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) took center stage on the second day, being the fourth most common cancer and third leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the Philippines. Dr. Janus Ong, one of the Philippines’ leading gastroenterologist and transplant hepatologist, researcher, and hepatitis advocate, presented a comprehensive landscape of HCC in the country, identifying Hepatitis B as the primary culprit, along with alcohol-related diseases and MASLD (Metabolic Syndrome-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease). Our very own Dr. Arthur Gregory Lui followed suit with the latest innovations in HCC management, bringing hope to our HCC patient through innovative measures, updated treatment and science.
One of the most awaited segments was a talk by Dr. Israel Francis Pargas, Senior Vice President of the Philippine Health Insurance Corporation (PHIC) Finance Policy Sector, shedding light in Understanding Cancer Benefits and Philhealth Z Packages, helping medical oncologists all over the country understand patient eligibility and healthcare access for Filipino cancer patient—a truly empowering session for both doctors and the lives they touch.
The Role of Social Media and the Human Side of Care
With the growing influence of social media in today’s healthcare, the afternoon session of the Day 2 Midyear Convention highlighted the “Balancing Responsibilities and Ethical Boundaries in Social Media”, a lecture by Dr. Erik K. Singhi of the MD Anderson Cancer Center, alongside Atty. Molly Cr. Abiong, MD, LIB from the University of the Cordilleras College of Law. Their extensive discussion provoked thoughtful reflection on the power—and limits—of the digital age in professional practice.
Other resonant topics included: “How Biosimilars Are Shaping the Future of Cancer Therapy” delivered by Dr. Anthony Gregory Lui, and “Caring for the Cancer Care Provider” by Dr. Fareda Fatima Flores, Managing Director of the Metro Psych Facility – a heartfelt reminder of the importance of self-care among medical oncologists, who take daily burden of the physical, emotional, mental and financial aspect of caring for the lives of cancer patients and their families.
Closing with Connection and Celebration
No PSMO convention is complete without a heartfelt and reflective team building, an opportunity for members to connect on a deeper level, celebrate unity, and rediscover the joy of working together. Notably, this year’s team building activities were both spirited and well-attended, fostering camaraderie and unity among members through fun indoor and outdoor challenges.
The PSMO Midyear Convention 2025 concluded with the Business Meeting, followed by an evening of celebration filled with laughter, prizes, games, and memories that will surely last beyond the cool Baguio breeze.
UMALI KAYO! 2025 was not just a convention—it was a convergence of intellect, heart, culture, and commitment to the Filipino cancer patient. A snappy salute to the officers, organizers and delegates for another successful milestone.
