From Evidence to Action: Building a Healthier, More Inclusive Future
The College of Allied Medical Professions (CAMP) held its Annual Research Symposium, ππ§π€π’ ππ«ππππ£ππ π©π€ πΌππ©ππ€π£: π½πͺππ‘πππ£π π ππππ‘π©ππππ§, ππ€π§π ππ£ππ‘πͺπ¨ππ«π ππͺπ©πͺπ§π, bringing together graduate and undergraduate students, faculty, health professionals, and experts from various fields to share and learn from the latest research in occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech pathology. The event highlighted the vital role of research in enhancing our capacity to serve fellow Filipinos and foster collaboration across the health professions.
The day began at the College of Dentistry Auditorium with an opening ceremony featuring a warm welcome from Asst. Professor Kristel Faye M. Roderos, Chair of the CAMP ARS, who set an enthusiastic tone for the event. This was followed by opening remarks from Dean Esmerita R. Rotor, who emphasized the importance of enjoying the research process and finding meaning in the projects we pursue.
An inspirational message was delivered by Dr. Emerito Jose A. Faraon, Head of the UP Manila Research Grants Administration Office, who underscored the importance of remaining dedicated to our professions and to research, and staying inspired despite the challenges of the process. The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Miguel Angelo S. Mantaring, MD, MPM, Director IV of the Bureau of Learner Support Services, Department of Education. His insightful and persuasive remarks reiterated the pressing need for health professionals in the country who are ready to serve and continue generating research that supports our capacity to care for others.
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The faculty spotlight featured Asst. Professor Guia Allyza D. Rabacca, MFLCD, OTRP, who presented her research project, βKaya Ko Pala: Occupational Teletherapy Experiences and Self-Efficacy of Filipino Parents.β Her study shed light on the experience and self-efficacy of Filipino parents to engage in teletherapy for children with autism spectrum disorder.
Following Asst. Prof. Rabaccaβs presentation, reactions were shared by Prof. Charla Rochella S. Saamong, PhD, and Asst. Prof. Josephine Louise F. Jamero, PhD, both from the University of the Philippines Diliman, Department of Family Life and Child Development. Their reflections enriched the conversation, offering valuable insights into the value of collaborations between teachers and therapists and future directions for implementing recommendations and developing new programs.
After a short break and a transfer to the College of Allied Medical Professions, the symposium continued with parallel sessions. Morning and afternoon sessions featured presentations from undergraduate and Master of Physical Therapy students, grouped under the themes βAdvancing Inclusion, Function, and Wellbeing,β βExploring Work, Education, and Practice Landscapes,β and βNew Tools and Evidence for Better Health.β These sessions showcased cutting-edge research on interventions, technological advancements, and outcome measures shaping the future of allied health practice.
The CAMP Annual Research Symposium served as a powerful reminder of the importance of research in creating meaningful change. By bridging evidence and action, the symposium not only celebrated the work of emerging scholars but also reinforced our shared commitment to a more inclusive and responsive health system. As we continue to build on these insights, we move closer to a future where all Filipinos have access to quality, evidence-based care.
Written by: Gabriella Isabel R. Tablante-Santos, PTRP
Edited by: Yves Y. Palad, EdD, PTRP
