T H E O F F I C I A L P U B L I C AT I O N O F PA M E T

Volume VII • No. 9 October - December 2017

New PAMET Charter Gets 1 00% Approval

After three years of extensive review
and consultation with chapter, regional
and national officers which started in
2015, the 2017 Constitution and By-laws
of the association was finally ratified
on November 22, 2017, during the 53rd
by Ronaldo E. PAMET Annual Convention at Marriott
Puno
Grand Ballroom, Newport City, Pasay City.
An overwhelming 100 percent approval was
given by the qualified members who voted using the
automated system adopted by PAMET. It took effect 30
days after ratification.
In compliance with the constitutional requirements,
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
ETHICS in the Workplace
copies of the final version of said charter were
distributed to the different Chapters and members prior
to Mid-Convention in Iloilo City in May 2017, wherein focuses on
initial ratification was held. It was also posted in
PAMET website and social media accounts in order to
If you want to know someone’s
disseminate it widely to the general membership.
mind, listen to their words.
The initiative to ratify new by-laws was brought
about by some provisions in 2008 version that need If you want to know their
updating and clarification. There were also additional heart, watch their actions.
parts introduced in order to address the needs of the by Gamaliel A.
Fulgueras
times. Among them were the provisions on the creation
of International Chapters and Institutional Units, It is in this context that the PAMET Professional Development
allocation of 1 slot to those coming from the Chapters Program focused on the theme “Ethics in the Workplace” which
who want to run to be a member of the National Board kicked off on October 1, 2017 at Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria
in Ortigas Avenue, Quezon City.
and the creation of Northern and Mindanao Regions.
Other salient parts are matters concerning membership, Ably handled and managed by the 5-woman team with
welfare and benefits and ethics. MBA in Health in their names (they actually met at Ateneo
Graduate School of Business), the workshop focused on the
The committee on Constitution and By-laws is 5 approaches of Ethical Standards; The utilitarian approach,
chaired by PAMET Exec. Sec. Gina Noble while the the rights approach, the fairness justice approach, the common
committee on Election is chaired by Ms. Jacinta Cruz. good approach and the virtue approach. Aside from citing
the code of ethics of Philippine Medical Association (PMA)

in this issue...
and the Philippine Association of Medical Technologists
(PAMET), Filipino values and traits were also discussed like
“Bahala Na”, “Lakas ng Loob”, “Pakikibaka”, “Utangna Loob”,
4 It’s a Strike! The PAMET Bowling “Pakikisama”, “Pakiramdamam”. These traits somehow affect
Tournament the ethical leadership in each and one of us. We must learn
to spot intolerable behavior and exercise good judgment and
5 Adventist tops decision. It is important to create a company culture that
36th PAMET-PASMETH Quiz Bee rewards ethical behavior. Leaders of the laboratory like chief
medical technologist, laboratory manager and supervisor have
PRC Call for Nominees a crucial role in setting the tone of ethical standards.
Community Outreach at Pampanga Some topics discussed were professionalism, quality
6 The Medical Technologists Par Excellence awareness at work, sense of community, ethical dilemmas
among people (medical technologists, colleagues, clinicians,
8 Medical Technology Week 2017 photos patients). A workshop followed in the afternoon session with a
continued on page 3
 EDITORIAL

PRES’ ZONE
RONALDO E. PUNO, RMT, MBA-H

As we conclude 2017 with high notes, Anchored on these humble achievements,

let us welcome 2018 with much hope and PAMET is inspired to do better in 2018.
anticipation. Definitely, there’s a lot to be done... new
developments are on its way... more
There is so much to be grateful about challenges are expected. With PAMET’s vision
the year that passed. Though challenges of unity, commitment and empowerment, we
abound, countless blessings surpassed them are even more eager to bring the Filipino
all. Looking at the impressive number in terms Medical Technologists at the forefront of
of Chapters formation and CPD programs, healthcare services and the members at the
several collaborative partnerships, record- center of it all.
high attendance in seminars, conventions
and conferences, more meaningful social As we start a new year, PAMET is focused
responsibility activities, systems upgrade and on “Setting New Vision Beyond Borders”.
enhanced information technology, and many
more, it only shows that PAMET is committed
to explore all possibilities to deliver the best
service to its members.

LABNOTES
GAMALIEL A. FULGUERAS, RMT

And the award goes to...

Innovation, creativity and research
Gamaliel A. Fulgueras
define what a medical technologist he or Editor-in-Chief
she is today, one who looks to reinvent the
profession. Victor H. Lumboy Gina A. Noble
Associate Editor Executive Editor
This year’s nominees for outstanding
achievement in the field of medical Eleanor P. Garcia
technology in the Philippines represent Circulation Manager
something of a departure. Often the choice reflects institutional
powers like Chapter Presidents, former officers and board of Contributing Writer
directors and Chief Medical Technologists. This year is an Gerrick Joseph C. Dolor
important reminder that the profession can also be transformed
Lito G. Atienza
from the ground up. Does age matter? Or is it the quality
education? Length of service?
Abigail Lana M. Canicula
It has been awhile when we featured medical technologist Lay-out Artist
in our regular column “In Vitro”. The editorial board has focused
on the activities of the organization which filled the pages of Ronaldo E. Puno
our newsletter. But in this issue, the board decided to feature Adviser
the candidates for top awards of our organization to inspire
everyone on what undertakings the nominees have gone
through to achieve the position for what and who they are now. THE PHILIPPINE ASSOCIATION
OF MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS, INC.
Finally, I want to salute them for sharing their expertise Unit 1720 17th floor Cityland 10 Tower 2,
with fellow medical technologists. And of course, serving the 6817 Ayala Avenue, Makati City
Tel. No.: (632) 817 1487 • Telefax: 812 6819
community as well. You are truly the heroes of the association. Email: [email protected]

2 l October - December 2017

from page1 - Professional Development Program... and conduct oneself with reputation
framework prepared by the team for of reliability, honesty and integrity
discussing cases involving issues. 6. Recommendations:
This is the procedure on how to • Make a criteria rubrics for objective
handle ethical dilemma: evaluation
• Rose can delegate the task to
1. Facts of the case
another person to avoid conflict of
2. Central ethical problem interest
3. Practical questions • Rose may inhibit in the evaluation
4. Definition of terms since the owner/ supplier to be
5. Moral principles/ Virtues involved evaluated is the best friend of her
6. Resolving conflicts aunt.
7. Recommendations The objective of the program
part of Rose to return the favor to her is to apply the concept of standards
To give insights on how to of personal and professional ethical
handle a situation, each group was aunt by giving a favorable evaluation
to R.A.Y. Inc? programs in health care. It should develop
given a case to resolve. The following a culture that creates and supports an
is an example of the case presentation. • What will be compromised should environment that fosters teamwork,
1. Facts of the case Rose recommend R.A.Y. Inc? emphasizes quality, recognizes the
• Rose became a Medical • Are the other two suppliers better customer and promotes learning.
Technologist through the support than R.A.Y. Inc?
of her Aunt who used to be a 4. Moral Principles/Virtues Involved The 5-woman team is composed of
Section Supervisor • Utang na loob Dr. Lilibeth Tanchoco, Dean College of
• Personal interest versus common good Medicine, Manila Central University, Dr.
• The owner of the R.A.Y Inc is the Cynthia Fabian-dela Rea, Diabetologist,
best friend of her aunt • Conflict of interest
• Independence/autonomy Valenzuela City Emergency Hospital, Dr.
• The clinic where Rose is working Regina Sanchez-Ampil, Nephrologist,
wanted to upgrade some • Justice/fairness
• Quality service National Kidney and Transplant
diagnostic equipment. There were Institute, Dr. Trigidia de Vera-Alvega,
three supplier who were called for 5. Resolving conflicts Pediatrician, Valenzuela Citicare
demonstration Utilitarian (based on utilitarian ethics Hospital and Sis. Cecille Asuncion
• Rose being the Section Supervisor Rose should not recommend R.A.Y. Inc Cabahug, a BS Pharmacy graduate
in one of the persons to give the Pros: objective evaluation, quality of University of Santo Tomas, Director
evaluation of the equipment to be ser vice on timeliness and cost Administrative Services of De La Salle
purchased effectivity, more qualified supplier University Medical Center.
• Rose’ aunt wanted her to give Cons: possible strained relationship
favorable evaluation in favor of The 30 delegation of this workshop
between Rose and her aunt came from various laboratories in
R.A.Y. Inc even if the said company
cannot meet the calibration Kantian (if Rose chooses the favor being hospitals and institutional units, deans
requirements and the high cost of dictated by her aunt) and faculty members of Medical
reagents. Pros: Strengthened relationship Technology schools.
2. Central Ethical Problem – Rose is between Rose and her Aunt
The Professional Development
torn between giving in to the request Cons: Rose integrity will be Program, which started in 1992 with
of her aunt and giving an objective compromised the support of Procter and Gamble
evaluation Violation of code of ethics of medical Philippines, aims to produce better
3. Practical questions technologists which uphold the leaders, committed individuals and
• Is there a moral obligation on the dignity and respect of the profession laboratory professionals par excellence.

The Official Publication of PAMET l 3

 It’s a Strike!
At the first set of game, the team of VMMC/UST/TUA with former PAMET
President Romeo Joseph Ignacio led the score board with 999 points, followed
by PAMET Quezon Chapter with 970 points, The Medical City with 919
The PAMET Bowling points and on the fourth place with the score 892 was QCGH team.
Tournament On the second and final round, VMMC/UST/TUA team still led the
board with 998 points, PAMET Quezon Chapter with 934, QCGH who
was fourth place on the first round made a huge advance over The
Medical City with 922 points and 877 points respectively.
At the end it was QCGH team who landed on the third place with a total
of 1,814 points, second place was awarded to PAMET Quezon Chapter with
1,904 points and still the champion for the 2017 Labowlingan tournament was
The Philippine VMMC/UST/TUA team with 1,997 points.
by Gerrick Association of Medical
Besides the best teams being recognized, male and female players were
Joseph C. Technologists hit the
Dolor
strike as they ended their also awarded for their individual scores per category. The highest pinner for
week-long celebration with a bowling male was awarded to Mr. Romeo Joseph Ignacio of PAMET NCR with 351 points
tournament dubbed as “LABowlingan and the female highest pinner was Ms. Liza Jacinto of QCGH team scoring with
2017” for their 45th MedTech 293 points. Mini-games and special prizes were also the highlight of the event
Week held last September wherein players were given
16, 2017 at the Playdium small tokens for their scores
Bowlings and Billiard Center, that matched with the lucky
G. Araneta Ave., Quezon City. bowling points.
Participants from different Although the competition
hospitals, laboratories and was intense and all players
institutions take the day off were exhausted, still it was
and had a friendly competition a very successful and fun
vying for the championship title filled event for all,where
in the bowling tournament. The friendship, camaraderie
great turnout of players were
and sportsmanship were
from Quezon City General
forged and established
Hospital, Providence Hospital,
amongst the participating
Mary Johnston Hospital,
University of Santo Tomas, Medical Technologist of the
EAMC-National Reference association.
Laboratory, Trinity University Kudos to the energetic
of Asia, Justice Jose Abad team of Mr. Gerrick Joseph
Santos General Hospital, Dolor who chaired for the
The Medical City, Philippine first time the Committee
General Hospital, Sta. Ana on Sports. His members are
Hospital, Veterans Memorial young and vibrant medical
Medical Center, East Ave
technologists Rommel
Medical Center, PAMET Lab
Banjo Pangan, Cyril Juster
Management Committee
Barros and Ralph Joseph
and PAMET Quezon Chapter
who all formed 10 teams. Cayetano.

4 l October - December 2017

 ADVENTIST tops
36 PAMET-PASMETH
th

Quiz Bee
Community Outreach
Students of the Adventist University of
the Philippines (AUP) emerged victorious
in Pampanga
in the 36th PAMET-PASMETH Quiz
by Gamaliel A. Show among medical technology and
Fulgueras
medical laboratory science students. It’s
PAMET went to San Simon, Pampanga for another
been more than ten years since AUP won the national
community outreach, as a yearly event, last December 3,
quiz bee.
2017 together with PAMET Pres. Ronaldo Puno, Committee
The team bested other students in the competition Chair Lito G. Atienza, PAMET Tarlac Chapter Pres Ms Sisa
held at Crossroads Center, Quezon City on September Agustin, Nueva Ecija Chapter Pres. Ms Grace Bacalzo,Ms
12, 2017. Forty schools of medical technology joined Levylita Julian Olongapo-Zambales Chapter Immediate Past
the competition despite the stormy weather. President, Mr Raymund Nava, Co-chair on Advocacy, Mr
The quiz bee was an inexplicably outrageous when Ricky Martinez Chair on Advocacy, friends from PAMET USA
students from Angeles University Foundation (AUF) and PAMET Secretariat.
made a perfect score in round 1 and 2 but failed to
These event was a collaborative effort of Mr Allen
sustain the momentum during the third round thus
losing to Far Eastern University-Nicanor Reyes Medical Vergara, a friend of Mr Martinez and PAMET for a yearly
Foundation (FEU-NRMF) which placed second and to community outreach.
AUP, this year’s champion. The group distributed
The board of judges was composed of Mr. Robert hygiene kits with safeguard
Manaois, Ms. Ellen Garcia, Mr. Lito Atienza, Ms. soaps provided by PAMET while
Cynthia Rabadam and Ms. Jacinta Cruz who acted as the slippers were provided by
the Chair of the board of judges. Mr Ricky Martinez. Almost 200
The master of ceremonies was Ms. Heide Banan and beneficiaries benefitted on that
Mr. Don Blasco was the Quiz Master. This year’s Chair event. That day was a fun-filled
of the Committee on Quiz Show is Mr. Victor Lumboy. activity as PAMET shared
their time in a commitment
as part of corporate social
responsibility to the community
of the organization.

Call for
Nominees
WHAT
Nomination for Outstanding
Professional in Medical Technology by
Professional Regulation Commission

WHO
Registered Medical Technologist

WHEN
February 10, 2018 (deadline for submission)
For more information please contact PAMET
Secretariat 0917 890 1118 and (02) 817 1487

The Official Publication of PAMET l 5

 The Medical Technologists
Par Excellence
In this issue, we are featuring the nominees
for various national awards of the Philippine
Association of Medical Technologist for the year
2017. These medical technologists play a pivotal
role, in one way or another, in nurturing fellow
professionals for their professional growth.
by Gamaliel A. These are the medical technologists who
Fulgueras
have touched the lives of people, in and
out of the organization. They are medical
technologists par excellence.
RESEARCHERS OF THE YEAR Merlyn Cruz is a faculty/researcher of
Angeles University Foundation. A recipient
of Philippine Council for Health Research
and Development (PCHRD) Scholarship
Award in 2005, her research includes but
not limited to Anti-Breast Cancer Activity
of Locally Grown Annona muricate, Anti-
tubercular Activity of Selected Herbs
Juayang Nuevo Yabes Estrella Cruz and Spices, Plant Crude Extract with
Potential Broad Spectrum Activity among
Alain Juayang is PAMET Visayas Regional Awardee for Crisanto Almario for others. She is appointed member of
2017. He was cited for having contributed in the upliftment and advancement of PAMET Team of Experts for Molecular
Medical Technology profession particularly through research works. He authored Techniques. She is the PAMET North
a research study published in International Journal of Bacteriology, entitled Luzon Regional Awardee for Crisanto
Almario Award for Research in 2010.
“Review on the Antimicrobial Resistance of Pathogens from Tracheal and
Endotracheal Aspirates of Patients with Clinical Manifestations of Pneumonia
in Bacolod City in 2013”. MEDICAL TECHNOLOGISTS
Dr. Jurel Nuevo is a PASMETH Vice President who is into research and OF THE YEAR
academe. He has a PhD Degree and additional 2 doctorate degrees in Mr. Plebeian Medina is the Supervising
Environmental Science and Public Health (both on going). He has established Research Specialist at Research Institute
additional 4 schools of Med Tech for his beloved institution Our Lady of Fatima for Tropical Medicine with over 10 but
University. He has over 10 published researches (authored and co-authored less 15 years of working experience.
combined) and books published both here and abroad. He also received He has a masteral degree in Medical
awards and the most recent is the Gawad Dr. Pio Valenzuela for Science and Technology and a sought after speaker
Technology last July 11, 2017. about biosecurity and biosafety in the
laboratory as well as topics in rabies.
Dr. Aileen Manglicmot-Yabes is a researcher of University of the Philippines
His research papers were published in 2
- Manila. She has various researches even before she landed a job in UP. international journals. Energetic Pleibeian
She was an envoy of the Philippines to Japan in the 90s to study the mercury has 2 international awards in Japan.
poisoning that took place in Mindoro. She was a toxicology consultant for drug
analysis prior to the enactment of RA 9165 mandating the establishment of NRL Dr. Supachai Basit is the 2017
for Toxicology. She has been invited as the resource speaker for toxicology in Outstanding Professional in Medical
PAMET and Chemistry conferences. Technology by the Professional Regulation
Commission. He has received 2 Crisanto
Dr. Luthgarda David Estrella is the recipient of the Crisanto Almario Almario Awards from PAMET National
Memorial Award for Research in 2017 from PAMET North Luzon. Her research and PAMET South Luzon respectively. He
management is in the promotion of biological science through collaboration, is a resource speaker in Microbiology, a
inclusion and implementation of outcome –based education. Her study on the former National President of Philippine
“Development and Validation of a Proposed Instructional Workbook for the Society for Microbiology and a recipient of
Teaching of Cells, Proteins and Carbohydrates” for College of Biochemistry was American Society of Microbiology award.
recognized by Research Institute for Health Sciences of University of the East He is currently the Dean, College of
Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center, Inc., thus bringing an informed Medical Technology of Emilio Aguinaldo
perspective and an abundance of knowledge to its work. College in Dasmariñas Cavite.

6 l October - December 2017

 Mr. Sherwin Galit is a Supervising Medical DISTINGUISHED SERVICE
Technologist and Training Officer of the Department
of Parasitology at the Research Institute for Tropical
Medicine (RITM). He has been working in RITM for
18 years already and has been actively involved
in the implementation of the core mandates of
the institution. He is also a part-time faculty of the
Medina College of Medical technology of Perpetual Help,
Molino. As instructor, he combines the experience
and practical application he has gained while Sayo Porto Atienza Isais
working in the NRL in his teaching strategy. He
was awarded the Outstanding Employee of RITM Michaela Sayo was adjudged as Distinguished Service
on April 27, 2015. Awardee for PAMET North Luzon 2017. She has a
Prof. Mark Nava is our PAMET scholar from distinction of bagging the Chapter of the Year award for
TMER in 2015. Because of his training, Mr. 4 consecutive years in the region and 3 years in the
Basit Nava has managed to share the knowledge national level, respectively, under her presidency. With
he learned from his trainings to our provincial 20 years of working experience, Ms. Sayo is a PAMET
chapters this year. He was a Chapter President Safeguard Scholar for her masteral degree in Medical
of PAMET Socksargen. Young and vibrant, Mr. Technology (on going). Her advocacy on the profession
Nava is competent and proving himself that of medical technology is manifested through artworks and
experience and age do not matter at all when designs in the transport system in Bulacan (JEEPNEY
expertise is the name of the game. AND TRICYCLE) thus visibility is powerful for the people
to know about our noble profession.
Ms. Zarlyn Banaña is the recipient of the Most
Galit Outstanding Medical Technologist of PAMET John Fiehl Porto is PAMET Mindanao Regional Awardee
North Luzon 2017. She is the founder of PAMET for Most Outstanding Medical Technologist for 2017.
Singapore, the first international chapter of PAMET However, he is nominated for Distinguished Service
outside the country. She has served PAMET in Award for his consistent and outstanding dedication to the
all levels of the organization; chapter, regional, uplifting of the profession by conducting training on integral
national and Asean region. Back to the Philippines Laboratory Diagnosis of Intestinal and Extra – intestinal
in 2015, Zarlyn is now a Med Tech V, a position of Parasitic Diseases (Soil-Transmitted Helminthes, Food and
Chief Medical Technologist in her province. Water- Borne Parasites) particularly on Malaria, Dengue
and Filaria, his involvement in strengthening Malaria
Nava
Ms. Zenaida Banzon of Davao Chapter was Microscopy Quality Assurance among Asian countries,
awarded the PRC Outstanding Med Tech in the and his untiring commitment to PAMET in sharing his
early 2000s. However, she has not won the PAMET expertise through lectures, consultations and workshop.
Most Outstanding Med Tech yet, only in regional
level in 2015. She's a recipient of Distinguished Lito Atienza is PAMET South Luzon Regional Awardee
Service Award from PAMET National. As a Chief for Distinguished Service for 2017. He was cited for his
Medical Technologist, she is part in the decision dedicated involvement in the holistic rendition of providing
making of her department or institution that's why leadership as National Board Director, Regional Director
she is considered a proponent of policy making and Chapter President of Laguna which manifested his
Banaña at her workplace. Ms. Banzon served as Chapter significant contributions to the association. His active
President of PAMET Davao and PAMET Regional participation in various community outreach programs,
Director for Mindanao. both local and national, is a symbol of selfless commitment
and volunteerism. Mr. Atienza is the Chief Medical
Prof. Robert Manaois is the President of Technologist of Calamba Medical Center.
Scientific Biotech Specialties Inc. A graduate of
Medical Technology from Far Eastern Univesity, Maura S. Isaisis the Chief Medical Technologist of Bulacan
he is a faculty member of San Beda Graduate Medical Center. She is well known and highly regarded
School of Business and Lyceum of the Philippines not only for her responsiveness, keen knowledge of civil
University. He graduated with Academic Award services rules and practices, thoroughness and accuracy,
Banzon
as Silver Medalist from Ateneo Graduate School but also for her pleasant, kind, and calm demeanor. She
of Business (AGSB), Master in Business was the recipient of PAMET North Luzon Regional Award for
Administration. He is a resource speaker on Distinguished Service in 2016. She also served PAMET as
the topic of Management and Marketing from Chapter President of Bulacan and a National Director. She
various professional organizations like PAMET. also held position as Chair of the Quiz Show Committee.

The will to win, the desire to succeed, the urge to reach your full potential; these are the
keys that will unlock the door to personal excellence
Manaois - Confucius
The Official Publication of PAMET l 7
 The Med Tech Week Committee

Medical Technology Week 2017

The PasikLABan winners LABo LABo sa LAB Quiz

Marites Go
Chair, Med Tech
Week Committee

Gerrick Joseph Dolor

Chair, Sports & Fitness Committee on Sports

The second phlebotomy training for trainers was held last November
23, 2017 at Marriott Hotel. The training was participated by Chapter
presidents all over the country.