AUP celebrates first-ever White Coat Ceremony

Philippines: The Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) College of Dentistry marked the start of the second semester of the 2022-2023 academic year with its first-ever White Coat Ceremony for dental students on January 19th. 

The White Coat Ceremony marked a significant milestone for the dental students and was an expression of commitment to using their time to help others with dental needs.

Transforming the lives of patients

The event was held at the Philippine International Church in Silang, Cavite and was organized by the College of Dentistry (COD) Clinician’s Club. The theme of the ceremony was “Poiema,” a Greek word meaning “workmanship” or “something made”, with reference to God as the creator.

“Clinicians can also transform their patients’ lives from something twisted to something beautiful by practicing craftsmanship and using all of their strength,” said Lalaine Alfanoso, SSD health ministries director.

“The most fulfilling thing in life for a Christian missionary dentist is to serve as a witness for Christ by being God’s poiema. Every person has a masterpiece inside, even those with scars.”

Students committed to meeting dental needs of others

During the ceremony, College of Dentistry Dean Herminiano Subido Jr praised the students for their big dreams and for marking the beginning of their history. 

“The Adventist University of the Philippines’ College of Dentistry is today holding its inaugural white coat ceremony. It serves as a visible declaration of everyone’s readiness to answer the call to devote their time to meeting the dental needs of others. May everyone’s day be blessed today.” said Subido. 

Gracel Ann Saban, the AUP vice president for academics, urged the students to infuse love into everything they do. The department chair, Verallel Caplis, also thanked the parents for their support and encouraged them to continue to support the students.

“Let us [the parents] give them [the clinicians] that additional pat on the back …, that hug, telling them that we love them as they celebrate this milestone,” Caplis said.