CPT PORTIA ANGELA C PARILLA MC, an Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgeon representing the Philippines, made the country proud by earning third place among 10 delegates in the Young ASEAN Military Medicine Officer (YAMMO) presentation themed "Next Innovation" with her research presentation entitled "A Workshop for Training in Ear Framework Creation Using Silicone Dental Impression Material: A Surgical Innovation for Training" during the 10th ASEAN Chiefs of Military Medicine Conference (ACMMC) held on 13-17 March 2023 in Krung Thep Maha Nakhon, Thailand. The competition aimed to showcase innovative solutions for military medical care that could be implemented in the ASEAN region.
The Filipino delegation also present—BGEN FATIMA CLAIRE S NAVARRO MC, The Surgeon General, and COL JOSE ROSEL B REDUBLE MC (MNSA), Chief Medical Corps, was filled with anticipation and elation as CPT PARILLA MC gave her presentation passionately. Her research on creating ear frameworks using silicone dental impression material as a surgical innovation for training was well-received and praised by the judging panel. At the end of the event, CPT PARILLA MC was awarded third place for her work among the 10 ASEAN delegates. The victory was a glorious moment for the Medical Corps (MC), and the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and a testament to the hard work and dedication displayed by the young junior Medical Officer. This achievement showcases the country's dedication to innovation and excellence in military healthcare. The creative innovation she presented is not only applicable to the Philippines but also to other ASEAN countries facing similar challenges.
The Philippine YAMMO delegate’s success further shows that bold new ideas can drive tangible and positive outcomes. This also reflects the quality of Medical Corps Officers, their training, and support earned at Victoriano Luna Medical Center (VLMC), AFP Health Service Command where this research study was conceptualized and conducted under the Otorhinolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ORL-HNS) Department. CPT PARILLA’s award earned honor not only for herself but also for the AFP. Her remarkable achievement demonstrates the power of tenacity, assertiveness, and, most importantly hope. This triumph serves as an inspiration to invest in improving military healthcare and develop creative solutions to address the challenges faced by Military Medical Officers.
(Photos and story: OTSG)
