Celebrating a legacy of excellence and compassion in the field of medical education, the Cavite State University – College of Medicine (CvSU – COM) marked its first founding anniversary with the theme “Building a Healthy Future Together through One Health,” October 25, at the CvSU International Convention Center.
COM Dean Dr. Eleanor J. Galvez opened the celebration by underscoring how the theme embodies the essence of the college’s mission that “goes beyond the boundaries of traditional healthcare,” emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life on earth and the responsibility to work collaboratively for a healthier and more sustainable future.
For his part, University President Dr. Hernando D. Robles recognized the collaborative efforts of the pioneer faculty members and staff of the college, together with the Provincial Government of Cavite and the Provincial Health Office, in realizing the establishment of COM following the enactment of Republic Act No. 11509 or the “Doktor Para Sa Bayan Act.”
Dr. Robles also expressed his full support to the college as he believes it is high time to produce more doctors to the barrios in line with the One Health approach, ensuring a future with a healthy nation and population.
In a recorded keynote message, Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Teodoro J. Herbosa highlighted the role of the college and stakeholders in fulfilling the commitment to build a stronger health system for every Filipino where “bawat buhay ay mahalaga tungo sa bagong Pilipinas.”
Meanwhile, in a video message, Sen. Christopher Lawrence “Bong” T. Go acknowledged how the establishment of COM made medical education more accessible to those residing in Cavite and nearby provinces, and helped in strengthening the healthcare system in the region amid the pandemic.
As an expression of support to COM, Cavite 7th District Board Member Francisco Gabriel D. Remulla, representing Gov. Juanito Victor C. Remulla, also emphasized the college’s significant contribution in the prioritization of health and safety of every Caviteño.
A Certificate of Appreciation is also awarded to Dr. Galvez in recognition of her extraordinary leadership as the founding dean of COM, and her exceptional contributions in establishing and supervising the college.
Also highlighted in the event is the launching of the University’s voluntary blood donation program with the ceremonial Memorandum of Agreement signing between CvSU – COM and the DOH – Philippine Blood Center.
According to International and Local Collaborations and Linkages Office Director Prof. Ma. Veronica P. Peñaflorida, this program aims to foster a culture of compassion, responsibility, and community engagement among students, faculty, and staff; promote awareness about regular blood donations; and help improve public health.
The founding anniversary celebration also presented an Academic Symposium on One Health in collaboration with the College of Engineering and Information Technology; the College of Agriculture, Food, Environment, and Natural Resources; the College of Nursing; and the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences.
COM faculty and students capped the celebration with collab events that include quiz bee, Mr. and Ms. COM, and year level presentations.
