UERMMMCI has opened three new masteral degree programs: Master of Science (MS) in Asian Health Practices, MS in Tropical Medicine and Masters in Health Science Education. These are pioneering degree programs in the health field.

MS in Asian Health Practices covers Indigenous Health Practices, Traditional Chinese Medicine (Acupuncture), Nutrition Epidemiology, Herbal Medicine, Asian Massage and Exercises. Its approach is interactive and experiential, contrasting and integrating traditional, complementary health practices with Western and conventional medicine. This course is the first in the country.

MS in Tropical Medicine addresses disorders that are endemic or potentially endemic in the Philippines and in Southeast Asia. The program includes Communicable and Non-Communicable Diseases, Snake Bites and Insect Envenomization, Health Education and Promotion and Environmental Health. A holistic approach to disease causation and management is the main trend of the program. This course is also the first in the country.

The Masters in Health Science Education targets health professionals who are also in the teaching profession. The course mentors academicians on the accepted and appropriate norms of facilitating and conducting lectures, preparing audio-visual aids, curriculum planning and evaluating students. Interactive discussions and experiential learning is also implemented.

The Graduate School also offers three other CHED-recognized degree programs: MS in Internal Medicine Major in Diabetology, MS in Nursing/Master of Arts in Nursing and MS in Public Health Major in Epidemiology or Health Facility Management. These degree programs have graduated students who are now active in their chosen careers.

For so many years I have watched “alay lakad” pilgrims where the pilgrimages seem to be without purpose and devoid of the essence of their sacrifice. A means to provide the reflection and prayer was necessary.

For so many years I had been dreaming of putting up Stations of the Cross, which would inspire such pilgrims to unite themselves with the suffering of Jesus on his way to Calvary. This year I resolved that I would make my dream a reality.

First, I asked the Vicar General of Antipolo to grant me the permission to put up the Stations of the Cross along Sumulong Highway from Masinag to the Hinulugang Taktak Junction on Holy Thursday. He looked dejected because he could not support the project financially; they were already spending P120,000 every year for the Stations of the Cross on Ortigas. Determined, I called up friends in our subdivision to form a core group. We started networking with the different Homeowners Associations, barangay officials and business establishments. We also called upon the generosity of relatives and friends from Antipolo to Intramuros. With commitment and hard work of special people, the first to the thirteenth Stations of the Cross were almost miraculously set up along Sumulong Highway on the morning of Holy Thursday-in the nick of time for the pilgrims of Antipolo. It was edifying to witness the pilgrims now stopping and praying before each Station of the Cross, thus enriching their Holy Thursday sacrifice.

My dream of so many years became a reality not only through human efforts but also through divine grace. There are many more paths that can be opened by humans like us but only through the grace of the God. Elvira G. Lim, MSN, RN