APO Holds Its 1st General Meeting, Scientific Seminar, and 25th Biennial Induction Ceremonies Under the Theme “Membership Matters: Together We Grow”
by Dr. Fatima Gilbuena-Pegenia & Dr. Sarah Liao-Palileo
On 1 July 2026, the Association of Philippine Orthodontists (APO) successfully held its 1st General Meeting and Scientific Seminar and the 25th Biennial Induction of Officers and New Members. The event brought together distinguished guests, members, and friends of the association for a day of learning, fellowship, and leadership transition.
The event commenced with the Scientific Seminar, featuring Dr. Annie Laine Luat and Dr. Edward Keith Beduya as distinguished speakers. Dr. Luat opened the seminar by presentingselected clinical cases, discussing her diagnostic considerations, treatment planning, biomechanical approaches, challenges encountered, and treatment outcomes. This was followed by Dr. Beduya, who likewise shared a series of clinical cases, highlighting his treatment philosophy, biomechanical strategies, and clinical decision-making. An interactive discussion followed, during which participants engaged the speakers in thoughtful exchanges that reinforced and synthesized the key concepts presented in both lectures. The session concluded with valuable clinical insights and practical pearls from both speakers, equipping attendees with evidence-based approaches and techniques that they could readily integrate into their own orthodontic practice.
Following the Scientific Seminar was the Membership Matters segment, led by APO Membership Committee Chair, Dr. Rosabelle Pike. The session focused on members' responsibilities, the importance of maintaining good standing within the Association, and the various opportunities for active involvement through APO's programs and activities. Dr. Pike also introduced and provided a walkthrough of the Association's website, demonstrating how members can access their profiles, monitor their attendance, and track the points they have accumulated from previous meetings and activities. The session concluded with an open forum, during which members were encouraged to raise questions, share feedback, and exchange ideas on matters related to membership and member engagement.
The afternoon program marked a significant milestone for the Association as members gathered for the Induction Ceremonies. The formal proceedings commenced with the processional, followed by the singing of the Philippine Dental Association (PDA) and Association of Philippine Orthodontists (APO) Hymns, and the Welcome Remarks delivered by Dr. Ana Ramona Locsin, Chairperson of the Induction Ceremonies.
A highlight of the program was the keynote address delivered by PDA Hiraya President Dr. Mariusse Chars R. Esquillo, who shared his vision for the Philippine Dental Association under his leadership. He underscored the importance of servant leadership, professional service, and collaboration within organized dentistry, inspiring members to actively contribute to the continued growth and advancement of the profession.
Prior to the transition of leadership, a special audiovisual presentation was shown, highlighting the accomplishments, milestones, and memorable moments of the outgoing administration. The presentation served as a fitting tribute to the dedication, hard work, and collective efforts of the APO officers, committees, and members throughout the past term.
Outgoing APO President Dr. Marie Joanne Susana Marañon then delivered her Valedictory Address, reflecting on the challenges and achievements of her administration while expressing her heartfelt gratitude to her fellow officers, committee chairs and members, mentors, colleagues, and family for their unwavering support. She emphasized that the Association's accomplishmentswere made possible through teamwork, shared purpose, and a steadfast commitment to advancing the specialty of Orthodontics in the Philippines.
The ceremony continued with the induction of APO President Dr. Maria Irene Yu. Administered by the inducting officer in the presence of her family, colleagues, and distinguished guests, the oath-taking formally ushered in a new chapter of leadership for the Association. This was followed by the Symbolic Transfer of Authority, signifying the seamless transition of responsibility and stewardship from the outgoing administration to the incoming leadership
In her Inaugural Address, Dr. Yu reflected on her unexpected journey to the presidency, sharing that leadership within APO had never been part of her original plans. What began as a quiet commitment to serve through patient care, teaching, and collaboration gradually evolved into a deeper calling to serve the Association. Expressing her sincere gratitude for the trust and confidence bestowed upon her, she acknowledged that she accepted the responsibility not because she had all the answers, but because of her unwavering belief in the profession, the Association, and its members.
Anchored on the theme, “Membership Matters: Together We Grow,” Dr. Yu emphasized that membership is more than a title or credential—it represents a community that supports, challenges, and inspires its members to become better clinicians, educators, researchers, and leaders. She shared her vision of an APO where every member feels welcomed, valued, and empowered to contribute; where mentorship is deeply embedded in the organization's culture; where continuing education, scientific excellence, research, and innovation continue to flourish; and where collaboration remains stronger than competition. Recognizing the rapid evolution of Orthodontics through digital workflows, artificial intelligence, and emerging technologies, she encouraged members to embrace innovation while remaining firmly grounded in evidence-based practice, sound clinical judgment, and ethical patient care. Concluding her address, Dr. Yu called on every member to actively participate in the life of the Association, reminding everyone that when each member grows, the Association grows stronger.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of the Leadership Award to Dr. Marañon in recognition of her exemplary leadership, dedicated service, and invaluable contributions to the Association throughout her term as President. Following the presentation of the award, the newly elected APO Officers for Fiscal Year 2026–2028 were formally proclaimed and inducted, affirming their commitment to uphold the Association's mission and to serve its members. A new member, Dr. Karen Frias-Villacarlos, was also inducted and welcomed into the Association and its professional community.
The program concluded with the Closing Remarks delivered by APO President-Elect Dr. Lallaine Gogna, who emphasized the importance of active member participation and encouraged the younger generation of orthodontists to become more engaged in the association's programs, activities, and future initiatives.
The 1st General Meeting, Scientific Seminar and Induction Ceremonies reflected the Association of Philippine Orthodontists' unwavering commitment to professional development, organizational excellence, and servant leadership. As APO embarks on a new term, the event served as a celebration of past accomplishments while reaffirming the Association's shared vision for the future—one built on active participation, collaboration, mentorship, and the collective pursuit of excellence in Orthodontics.