MANILA, Philippines - To commence its 75 anniversary celebration, the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority, the first duly-recognized medical sorority in Asia, held its grand launch last June 17 at the College of Medicine, University of the Philippines-Manila. The sorority presented its roster of activities for the year, all of which highlight the pillars the sorority has upheld throughout its existence: sisterhood, service, scholarship, and leadership.
Festivities opened with a prayer from Joanne Macenas and Michaela Liquete. and welcome remarks from Dr. Lorna Ramos-Abad. An inspirational speech was given by Dr. Thelma Navarrete-Clemente, founder and director of the Capitol Medical Center, followed by the unveiling of the grand diamond and the raising of a toast to 75 years of glory, the latter led by Dr. Lilibeth Genuino.
Over 120 members of the sorority, along with members of the Mu Sigma Phi Fraternity, attended the grand launch. The event was headed by Dr. Fides Galvez-Flores and Johannie Uy and was hosted by Elaine Limkin and Most Exalted Sister Rochelle Castillo. Among the distinguished guests were UP president Emerlinda Roman, Philippine General Hospital (PGH) director Carmelo Alfiler, UP Manila Chancellor Ramon Arcadio, and UP College of Medicine dean Alberto Roxas. The event was also attended by members of the UP Manila community.
In keeping with its commitment to service, the Mu Sigma Phi Sorority also launched the second leg of ImMUnity, a free vaccination program for students of the UP College of Medicine last June 18 and 19. Free flu and HPV vaccines were administered to 200 students. The first leg of ImMUnity was held last March, where HPV vaccines were given to 100 PGH employees. The third and last leg of ImMUnity for this year was held June 22-26 and featured hepatitis B and typhoid vaccines, which were administered to medical students.