AFP, UP Manila forge dental advocacy, training agreement

From the Philippine News Agency (May 11, 2022): AFP, UP Manila forge dental advocacy, training agreement (By Priam Nepomuceno)

(Photo courtesy of AFP)

MANILA – The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the University of the Philippines (UP)-Manila on Wednesday signed a memorandum of agreement aimed at bolstering the partnership of the two institutions in dental advocacy, education and training.

AFP chief of staff Gen. Andres Centino signed the MOA on behalf of the military while UP-Manila chancellor Dr. Carmencita Padilla signed for the educational institution in simple rites at the AFP headquarters in Camp Aguinaldo, Quezon City.

The MOA will support the continuing education of military and civilian dentists of the AFP with the UPM College of Dentistry as the primary training provider.

"In return, the AFP through the Office of the Chief Dental Service will support the various dental community projects of UP," AFP public affairs office chief Col. Jorry Baclor said in a statement Wednesday night.

Under the MOA, AFP will also provide employment options for UP dentistry graduates and assist their college faculty and personnel in their application to the AFP Reserve Force.

The AFP and UPM also agreed to engage in collaborative research.

The signing was witnessed by Dr. Michelle Segarra, Dean of the UP College of Dentistry, and Brig. Gen. Angelica Torres, head of the AFP's Office of the Chief Dental Service.

The agreement will be in effect for three years starting from the approval of Defense Chief Carlito Galvez Jr.

“This kind of partnership is something that we must nurture so that we can continue to serve the country beyond our terms,” Padilla said as she acknowledged previous engagements with the military in reaching far-flung communities.

“I respect the uniformed personnel because we need you not only in keeping our country safe but in the daily fight for oral health,” she added.

Meanwhile, Centino emphasized the AFP’s need for partnership and collaboration with civilian agencies “who share the same vision for the country and care for the Filipino people.”

“We’re glad to work with you. This is just the beginning and we’re looking forward to having a fruitful relationship with UP,” he added.

https://www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1201240