The Perinatal Association of the Philippines, Inc. (PAP), in collaboration with the PAP Pangasinan Chapter and the Integrated Midwives Association of the Philippines, Inc. (IMAP), successfully held its 7th-year Anniversary event at the Crown Legacy Hotel on February 10-11, 2025. The theme “PAP at IMAP: Kaagapay sa Kalusugan Ng Ating Kabayan” underscored the vital role of healthcare professionals in advancing maternal and neonatal health in the country.
The program commenced with the National Anthem and PAP Hymn, led by Dr. Jelissa Mae Parayno, President of the PAP Pangasinan Chapter, who also served as the event’s moderator. This was followed by the Welcome Remarks delivered by Dr. Maria Conchitina T. Bandong, MD, MBA-H, FPPS, FPSNbM, President of PAP, Inc., who emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving perinatal care nationwide.
Expert Insights and Discussions
The event featured a series of lectures delivered by distinguished speakers in the field. Dr. Shella R. Yap, MD, FPPS, opened the discussions with a talk on premature birth and low birth weight babies, addressing critical concerns in neonatal care.
This was followed by Dr. Maribel Emma Co-Hidalgo, MD, FPOGS, FPSUOG, who provided an insightful session on Basic Ultrasound for the Health Care Professional, highlighting its importance in perinatal diagnostics.
An Industry Sponsor Lecture was delivered by Dr. Richard C. Jordias, MD, FPOGS, FPSMFM, FPSUOG, further enriching the audience’s knowledge of maternal-fetal medicine.
Afternoon Sessions and Induction Ceremony
Post-lunch sessions resumed with Dr. Ma. Carmeriza B. Buning, MD, FPOGS, who discussed Maternal Renal and Urinary Tract Disorders, shedding light on commonly encountered conditions during pregnancy. Dr. Aurora Gloria I. Libadia, MD, FPPS, FPSNbM, later tackled Respiratory Distress Syndrome, emphasizing early detection and management in neonates.
Another significant topic, Hepatitis Infection in Pregnancy, was presented by Dr. Richard C. Jordias, MD, FPOGS, FPSMFM, FPSUOG, outlining the risks and recommended interventions.
Engaging open forums allowed participants to interact with experts, fostering a collaborative environment for learning and knowledge exchange.
The event concluded with the Induction of New Officers and Members, marking a significant milestone for PAP and IMAP. The closing remarks were delivered by Dr. Maribel Emma Co-Hidalgo, MD, FPOGS, FPSUOG, Vice President of PAP, Inc., who expressed gratitude for the continued dedication of healthcare professionals in maternal and neonatal care.
UC-CON Faculty Representation
The University of the Cordilleras College of Nursing (UC-CON) actively participated in the event, with faculty members Heston Sial and Trisha Tan representing the institution. Their attendance underscored UC-CON’s commitment to continuous learning and collaboration in perinatal health advancement.
This 7th Anniversary celebration of PAP and IMAP reinforced the importance of multidisciplinary cooperation in ensuring quality maternal and neonatal healthcare in the Philippines. With expert discussions and meaningful collaborations, the event successfully empowered healthcare professionals to further elevate perinatal care practices.
