Honoring Heritage, Expanding Access: UP CAMP Celebrates 64 Years of Academic Excellence and Service
MANILA, Philippines — Bright skies and a shared sense of purpose marked the front grounds of the College of Allied Medical Professions (CAMP) on November 9, 2026, as CAMP faculty, students, and staff gathered with the UP Manila community for the Flag-raising Ceremony. The gathering celebrated a double milestone for the institution: the 64th Foundation Anniversary of UP CAMP and the 30th Foundation Anniversary of the UP CAMP Clinic for Therapy Services (CTS).

The program brought together college leadership, university administration, student representatives, and staff to reflect on the college’s rich history while charting a path forward for allied health professions in the country. Following the invocation led by Dr. Joseph D. Causapin, RRT, MD, DPBR-RO, Program Head of Radiologic Technology, the ceremony proceeded with the Panunumpa sa Watawat led by CAMP Student Council Chairperson Juliana Thea G. Tarriela, and the Panunumpa ng Kawani led by CAMP Administrative Assistant V Mariel Bantillo.

In her welcome address, Prof. Esmerita R. Rotor, Dean of UP CAMP, took the audience on a retrospective journey through the college’s lineage. She paid homage to the visionary leaders, educators, and trailblazers whose dedication laid the foundation for CAMP. Looking beyond legacy, Dean Rotor highlighted the evolving future of CAMP across three core pillars of education, research and service.

Dr. Michael L. Tee, Chancellor of UP Manila, delivered an inspirational message focusing on national healthcare challenges and actionable solutions. He underscored the critical shortage of allied health professionals in the Philippines, which continues to impede equitable access to care. To address these challenges, Chancellor Tee outlined strategic directions for UP Manila and CAMP:
- Faculty and Student Mentorship: Enhancing mentorship initiatives to support academic growth, leadership potential, and research capacity among educators
- LGU Partnerships: Collaborating directly with Local Government Units (LGUs) to establish community-based rehabilitation programs and create direct pipelines for care access and employment opportunities across diverse regions
- Resource and Program Support: Securing funding support for Radiologic Technology (RT) laboratories facilities, and advancing development efforts for Doctor of Optometry (DO) education to expand the college’s scope of allied health offerings.

The event concluded with a rundown of CAMP Foundation celebration activities by Mr. Mark Dullas, a member of the Social Special Events Committee and Public Service Committee of CAMP, closing remarks from College Secretary, Assoc. Prof. Yves Palad, and a simple breakfast shared among those gathered.

Photos from Juliana Marie A. Galbizo, OTRP and Gabriella Isabel Tablante-Santos, PTRP
Edited by Yves Y. Palad, EdD, PTRP