UPCD UP Manila College of Dentistry

21/09/2026

UPCD MAKES ITS PRESENCE AT THE 2026 FDI WORLD DENTAL CONGRESS IN PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
September 4-8, 2026

Dr. Armin Segarra, Dr. Julianne Eris Navarro and Dr. Hannah Bringas presented their papers during the recently concluded FDI World Dental Congress in Prague, Czech Republic. UPCD was the only dental school from the Philippines that presented scientific papers in the world's largest dental meeting.
Dr. Segarra's case presentation was on "Digital Dentistry and Minimally-Invasive Techniques Towards Predictable Esthetic Restorations" while Dr. Eris Navarro's poster was about "Barangay Community Health Workers for Maternal Oral Health Promotion." Dr. Hannah Bringas discussed "Barriers to Oral Hygiene in a Philippine University Hospital Setting." Aside from the three presenters, Dr. Celina Garcia, a frequent presenter in IADR meetings, was present to support the group.
Dean Michelle Segarra and Dr. Armin Segarra, the interim College Officer for International Linkages, were also able to meet and network with some faculty members from our partner universities and FDI officials during the Congress. Thank you Prof. Chu for inviting us to the HKU Afternoon Tea Party.

for the University

20/09/2026

The UP College of Dentistry, headed by Dean Michelle S. Segarra, hosted students from Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) for a 10-day Community Engagement Student Program last 31 August - 9 September 2026. To foster international academic collaboration and community service, the program featured dental public health lectures and workshops, immersive community oral health engagements and clinical exposure to advanced hospital-based surgical and interdisciplinary care.

The UNAIR delegates participated in the service-learning activities of UPCD students in the community, assisting in oral health education lessons, oral screening and topical fluoride application services in community health stations and homes, and in the conduct of a focus group discussion among previously trained oral health workers and community members. Their institutional visits featured observation of complex mandibular fracture management at the PGH Department of Dentistry and Interdisciplinary Management of Cleft Patients and Hospital Operations of Noordhoff Craniofacial Foundation Philippines, Inc. at the Our Lady of Peace Craniofacial Center. The program also balanced their academic integration with cultural exchange, featuring game nights, museum visits, city tours and guided campus tours across UPCD, UP Manila and UP Diliman.

SDG Contributions:
SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being
The community programs conducted fostered long-term health outcomes through oral hygiene promotion, maternal-child health education and home-based primary care.

SDG 4: Quality Education
The program broadened academic perspectives through cross-cultural learning, peer collaboration, exposure to specialized clinical procedures and community oral health immersion.

SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals
The program highlighted the international and local cooperation among academic institutions, government health centers and other non-governmental health foundation, in supporting dental public health initiatives.

07/09/2026

Registration is now open for the 2026 offering of the Enhancement Course in Oral Surgery for General Dentists to be held from October 20-25, 2026.
Venue: UP College of Dentistry and Hotel Kimberly
Registration fee: Php45,000.00 inclusive of hotel accommodation, full board meals, workshop materials, hand-outs
For details please visit

UP college of dentistryENHANCEMENT COURSE IN ​oral surgery

05/09/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
Building Relationships for International Development, Growth, and Exchange (BRIDGE) Program
Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University, Thailand
July 22 to 25, 2026

Congratulations Mr. Marco Alfonso Rodillo and Mr. Michael Santos for winning 1st and 2nd runner-up in the mini-quiz bee and to Mr. Rodillo for winning 1st runner up in the wax carving competition. You make us proud!

Marco Alfonso A. Rodillo and Michael Anthony S. Santos, fifth-year clinicians from the University of the Philippines Manila, College of Dentistry, attended the Building Relationships for International Development, Growth, and Exchange (BRIDGE) Program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok, Thailand, from July 22 to 25, 2026. The four-day program brought together dental students from 11 institutions across seven countries, including South Korea, Nepal, Japan, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, Indonesia, and the Philippines, with the goal of promoting cross-cultural collaboration, academic enrichment, and international exchange.

The program began with an opening ceremony and ice-breaking activities, where participants were introduced to one another and learned basic Thai phrases. This was followed by the first lecture, “Anterior Esthetics,” delivered by Assoc. Prof. Dusit Nantanapiboon and Dr. Sunporn Namano. The session covered extraoral and intraoral examinations, smile design, and considerations in selecting dental materials. In the afternoon, participants took part in a hands-on workshop on wire bending and splinting. The day concluded with a visit to the CU Book Center and a dinner featuring a variety of Thai dishes at Phrigkiao Bangkok.

The second day focused on cultural immersion and provided participants with an opportunity to experience Thailand's history, traditions, and way of life. The group visited Wat Arun, where they learned about the temple's history and Buddhist beliefs. After lunch at Sook Siam in ICONSIAM, participants explored Museum Siam, which presents various aspects of Thai culture and identity. The day concluded with a visit to Wat Pho, a historic temple complex known for its traditional Thai massage heritage and the renowned Reclining Buddha.

On the third day, participants were given an extensive tour of the Faculty of Dentistry, Chulalongkorn University. The tour included the Operative Dentistry clinic, dental laboratories, the Museum of Dentistry, the Museum of Human Body, and the CU Implant and Esthetic Dentistry Center. During the tour, the participants had the unexpected opportunity to meet former UPCD faculty member, Dr. Ezekiel Majan, who graciously guided the group through the facilities of the CU Implant and Esthetic Dentistry Center and shared his knowledge about the center’s facilities, equipment, and clinical services. This provided the participants with an opportunity to observe the university's facilities and gain further insight into its approach to dental education and clinical practice.

The second academic lecture, “Role of Endodontics in the Life Cycle of the Teeth,” was delivered by Assoc. Prof. Sirawut Hiran-us. The session concluded with an engaging mini quiz bee, where the University of the Philippines Manila secured the first and second runner-up positions. In the afternoon, participants joined a second hands-on workshop focused on anterior crown waxing. The activity challenged students to apply their knowledge of dental anatomy and morphology, with the top three submissions receiving awards.

On the final day, participants experienced another aspect of Thai culture through a traditional dessert-making activity. They prepared several Thai delicacies, including Luk Chup, Phakakrong, Thong Ek, and Saneh Chan. After a final group lunch, the program concluded with a farewell party at the Asia Hotel Bangkok. Participants wore their respective national costumes during the closing ceremony, which featured the awarding of certificates and prizes for the best anterior crown wax-up and best costume. Marco Alfonso Rodillo of the University of the Philippines Manila was awarded first runner-up for the anterior crown wax-up competition and received a corresponding prize. The evening ended with a buffet featuring Thai cuisine, as well as dancing and karaoke among the participants.

More than an academic exchange, the BRIDGE Program provided an opportunity to build meaningful connections with fellow dental students from different countries and to appreciate the similarities and differences in dental education, culture, and traditions. Through the lectures and hands-on workshops, the participants were able to enhance their clinical knowledge and skills, while the cultural activities encouraged greater appreciation of Thailand's heritage and the diverse backgrounds of their fellow participants. The experience served as a valuable opportunity for professional and personal growth and strengthened the importance of collaboration and international exchange in dentistry.

-Marco Antonio A. Rodillo and Michael Anthony S. Santos

for the University

04/09/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAMS
July 27-August 7, 2026
CA+inD Summer Short-Term Exchange Program
Tohoku University, Sendai, Japan

CONGRATULATIONS to Mr. Jordan Campo and Mr. Amy Manuel for winning Special Awards!

UPCD participated in a summer exchange program hosted by Tohoku University in Sendai, Japan, from July 27 to August 7, represented by Jordan Campo and Amy Manuel.The program welcomed 36 students across 11 universities and 6 countries. Amy and other JASSO scholarship recipients began early on July 21, participating in lectures and cultural activities such as dancing and wearing yukatas. Following the official arrival of Jordan and the remaining participants on July 27, the first week featured dental and Tohoku-led research discussions, hospital visits, a field trip, and decoration activities in time for Sendai’s Tanabata Festival.During the first week, UPCD delegates presented about the college. Students from participating universities expressed admiration for the college’s core values of nationalism, excellence, and integrity. One Indonesian student noted that it was “refreshing to see that kind of commitment to service.” Moreover, a South Korean student remarked that UPCD’s reputation as a top university was clearly reflected in the mere delivery of the representatives' presentation.During the final week, from August 3 to 7, the participants attended lectures on the future of dental materials and periodontal-based treatment planning. They also took part in dental workshops and presentations, including a traditional Japanese drum workshop (Wadaiko) held at the Kawauchi Campus Sub Area. The week concluded with the students’ final presentations and a closing ceremony, marking the end of a meaningful experience filled with learning, cultural exchange, and memorable moments.Special awards:🏅Best Presentation (Topic: Oral Health among Elderly) - Jordan Campo🏅First Place - Male Category and Overall (Tongue Pressure) - Jordan Campo🏅Second Place - Female Category (Tongue Pressure) - Amy Manuel

- Jordan Campo, Amy Manuel

for the University

04/09/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
2026 FKG UI Summer Course Program
Universitas Indonesia
August 2-13, 2026

Incoming clinicians from the University of the Philippines Manila College of Dentistry, James Martin M. Manalo, Janina D. Matubis, and Jeryll Charlize C. Viray, participated in a 12-day Summer Course Program in Universitas Indonesia, (FKG UI), the highest-ranked university in Indonesia. The program, entitled “Uniting Global Expertise with Indonesian Heritage: A Collaborative Vision for Dental Excellence,” provided an enriching experience that combined clinical learning with cultural immersion.A LOOK INTO INDONESIAN DENTAL EDUCATIONThe program commenced with a warm welcome reception at the Salemba Campus, beginning with a brief campus tour and culminating in a clinical tour of the various sections of the university’s dental hospital. The exchange students were divided into small groups, where clinicians from FKG UI enthusiastically engaged with them, answering their questions and sharing valuable insights into the clinical practices and facilities of the institution. On the second day, the exchange students were given the chance to visit Dentsply Sirona Indonesia where the advances on digital dentistry, especially in Computer-Assisted Imaging (CAI), Computer-Aided Design (CAD), and Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM), were presented.On the following day, the students were toured at the FKG UI Depok Campus, including the Dental Department of Rumah Sakit Universitas Indonesia (RSUI). The department offers a wide range of services across various dental specialties, with notable expertise in Aesthetic Dentistry, Halitosis Care, the Temporomandibular Disease Center, the Cleft Lip and Palate Center, Implant Dentistry, and Special Needs Dental Services. After the hospital tour, the students visited the Dental Materials and Oral Biology Laboratories at the UI Health Sciences Center, where they gained a deeper understanding of various dental materials, laboratory equipment, and microbiological experiments. These hands-on observations along with the comprehensive discussions of the professors allowed the students to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application— to visualize concepts previously encountered in the classroom.During the fourth day at Salemba Campus, the students attended two lectures delivered by distinguished professors from FKG UI. The first, entitled “Development of Dental Material Science in the Modern Era,” was delivered by Prof. Dr. drg. Yosi Kusuma Eriwati, M.Si. The session explored recent advancements in dental materials in Indonesia, with particular emphasis on the chameleon effect being investigated by UI researchers. This phenomenon refers to the ability of a single-shade resin to blend seamlessly with the surrounding tooth structure through light reflection and structural coloration, particularly in nanofilled compositeresin restorations. This demonstrates how advances in material science continue to enhance the esthetic potential of restorative dentistry in Indonesia.The second lecture attended by the exchange students, entitled “Root Canal Therapy: Advancement in Rotary Endodontic Treatment for More Efficient Treatment,” was delivered by Dr. drg. Shalina Ricardo, Sp.K.G., Subsp.K.E. The session revisited the fundamental principles of endodontic treatment while highlighting advances in rotary instrumentation that improve treatment efficiency while preserving the natural anatomy of the root canal system.EXPERIENCING THE INDONESIAN CULTUREBeyond the academic setting, the students were immersed in the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia throughout their stay. One of the program’s key objectives was to foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the country’s diverse culture and traditions. This objective was brought to life through museum tours and visits to renowned destinations across Indonesia where the students gained firsthand insight into the country’s history, heritage, and contemporary culture.The program offered a unique blend of modern and traditional experiences. The students explored destinations such as P*K By The Sea, Batavia P*K, Pantjoran, Blok M, UP at Thamrin, MONAS, Taman Safari in Bogor, and Bandung which offer a different glimpse into the country’s vibrant identity. Their cultural immersion was further enriched through opportunities to learn an Indonesian dance and experience a traditional musical instrument.The highlight of the cultural immersion was undoubtedly the visit to Saung Angklung Udjo, where the students witnessed a vibrant showcase of Indonesia’s diverse cultural heritage. Young Indonesian students performed traditional dances representing various provinces across the country, accompanied by the distinctive melodies of the Angklung. The exchange students were then invited to participate in the performance by learning how to play the Angklung. Beyond the performances, the activity offered the students a glimpse into Indonesia’s warm and welcoming culture while showcasing the remarkable diversity and richness of its traditional music and dance.FOSTERING INTERNATIONAL CONNECTIONSTogether, these experiences allowed the students to appreciate Indonesia beyond its academic and clinical landscape, providing meaningful opportunities to engage with its people, traditions, history, and evolving cultural identity. The cultural activities complemented their academic and clinical learning, making the exchange experience both educational and personally enriching. Participating in this summer course program allowed the students to appreciate both the similarities and differences in the dental education and practice of Indonesia and the Philippines. Furthermore, the students were particularly fulfilled with the introduction ofthe concept of dental hospitals, as it is relatively uncommon in the Philippines. Having been introduced to dental hospitals, the students gained a new perspective on the delivery of dental care.The summer course program ended with a closing ceremony at the Salemba campus where exchange students from the Philippines, Cambodia, Malaysia, and India performed a traditional dance and presented their final reports and reflections on the program. They also had the opportunity to perform songs and dances as well as share food and delicacies from their respective countries, further fostering cultural appreciation and camaraderie among all the participants. Lastly, certificates and tokens were then awarded by the Dean of FKG UI, Prof. Dr. Lisa R. Amir and Prof. Dr. Citra Kusumasari.The UPCD students, James, Janina, and Charlize, express their deepest gratitude for the meaningful learning and cultural exchange with the students from Indonesia, Cambodia, Malaysia, and India. They are truly thankful to Ms. Siti Nadya Ulfa of the FKG UI Office of Partnerships and International Affairs, for her unwavering guidance and assistance since the first day the students arrived in Indonesia until the very last. The students also convey their sincerest gratitude to the UPCD Administration, especially to Dean Michelle Sunico Segarra, for her steadfast support and for providing them with the opportunity to represent the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry internationally. This experience allowed them to engage with the international dental community, broaden their perspectives, and foster meaningful connections beyond the Philippines.

-James Manalo, Janina Matubis, Charlize Viray

for the University

03/09/2026

🩸 IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT

Due to the current weather conditions, today’s Blood Donation Drive has been SUSPENDED, following the advice of the PGH Blood Bank.

We sincerely apologize for the very short notice and for any inconvenience this may cause, especially to everyone who had already made plans to join us today.

We are coordinating with the Blood Bank regarding a possible rescheduled date and will share updates as soon as they become available.

To everyone who signed up and was ready to donate—thank you. ❤️ Your willingness to give blood means so much, and we hope to see you when we are able to hold the drive again.

For now, please stay safe and take care! 🙏

30/08/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM

INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE TOKYO (IST)
International Externship Program - Clinical Elective in Dentistry
July 13-17, 2026

As part of its continuing commitment to fostering international collaboration and providing students with opportunities for international exchange, the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry (UPCD) participated in the Institute of Science Tokyo (IST) International Externship Program - Clinical Elective in Dentistry last July 13-17.
Representing UPCD were Joaquin Lorenzo R. Alesna and Joshua Daniel G. Dabalos, sixth- and fifth-year clinicians, respectively. They were joined by three third-year dental students from National Taiwan University (NTU). Held over one week, the program provided participants with an immersive introduction to Japan’s dental education and healthcare system through a series of hospital observerships and academic exchanges at the Institute of Science Tokyo Dental Hospital. The activities throughout the week are outlined below.
Day 1
The five participants began their first day with an orientation and campus tour facilitated by the university’s International Exchange Support Group. This was followed by an observership under the Department of Maxillofacial Surgery, where they were given the opportunity to scrub in and observe a bimaxillary osteotomy up close, which was done with the aid of CAD/CAM simulations and models. They were also able to observe several chairside surgical procedures. The day concluded with a student exchange activity, where participants from UPCD, NTU, and IST presented their respective institutions, shared their experiences in dental education, and learned more about their respective countries’ cultures.
Day 2
The second day started with an observership under the Department of Maxillofacial Orthognathics, where participants observed various clinical orthodontic procedures and toured the department’s research and laboratory facilities. This was followed by an observership under the Department of Dental Anesthesiology, where they again observed several Operating Room procedures, with particular emphasis on the effects and applications of different sedative agents, as well as patient management during and after sedation. They were also given a short lecture on the common nerve blocks applied in their OR, particularly the Trigeminal Nerve Block.
Day 3
For the third day, the participants, guided by their IST student ambassadors, took a short break from the academic activities and spent the morning exploring Akihabara, a nearby district known as a center of Japanese pop culture, electronics, and anime. They also visited the nearby Kanda Myoujin Shrine, providing an opportunity to experience and appreciate aspects of Tokyo’s local culture and heritage. In the afternoon, the participants had an observership under the Department of General Dentistry II, where they were toured around the dental hospital, with an emphasis on the hospital’s workflow. They were also able to observe patient management under the Orofacial Pain Clinic.
Day 4
The fourth day began with an observership under the Department of Pulp Biology and Endodontics, where the participants observed endodontic treatment, retreatment, and broken instrument retrieval, all of which were performed with the aid of an endodontic microscope. They were also shown the facilities used for endodontic research. They then had an observership under the Department of Masticatory Function and Health Sciences, where they witnessed the process of mouthguard fabrication using ethylene vinyl acetate. They were also given a lecture on the fundamentals of Sports Dentistry, together with several sample cases.
Day 5
On their fifth day, the participants had an observership under the Department of Pediatric Dentistry/Special Needs Dentistry. There, the participants observed pediatric patient treatment and behavior management. This was followed by a brief tour in the Dental Museum. Finally, the program was formally concluded with a courtesy visit with the dean, Dr. Kenji Fueki, where the participants again presented their respective universities, gave feedback about the externship program, and were awarded their certificates.
Overall, the program highlighted both the similarities and differences between the Japanese and Philippine dental systems. While dental care in Japan demonstrated a more hospital-based approach, many of the foundational concepts and clinical principles encountered throughout the program were already previously encountered by the UPCD participants throughout their academic and clinical training at the college. By seeing these core dental principles applied in a different context, the participants gain

not only a better appreciation for these concepts, but are also opened to new possibilities without limiting themselves to only what is seen in the Philippines. As such, it could be said that opportunities such as this help ensure that UPCD students remain up to par with international standards.

- Joshua Daniel G. Dabalos and Joaquin Lorenzo R. Alesna

for the University

30/08/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
2026 International Dental Summer Course (IDSC)
Universitas Gadjah Mada, Faculty of Dentistry
July 7 -17, 2026

From July 7 to 17, 2026, Stephanie Red L. Contreras and Ana Margarita M. Ignacio, dental clinicians from the University of the Philippines Manila College of Dentistry, proudly represented the UP College of Dentistry (UPCD) at the 2026 International Dental Summer Course (IDSC) held at the Universitas Gadjah Mada Faculty of Dentistry in Yogyakarta, Indonesia.
With the theme “Sustainable Dentistry: Integrating Prevention, Innovation, and Environmental Responsibility,” the program brought together approximately 64 dentistry students from universities across Indonesia and the world, with Stephanie and Ana representing UPCD as the participating delegates from the Philippines.
The hybrid summer course explored key topics including minimal intervention dentistry, preventive strategies and oral health promotion, sustainable dental materials, dental waste management, and the role of digital dentistry in improving efficiency while reducing environmental impact. The online pre-event, held from July 7 to 10, featured insightful lectures from esteemed speakers representing the University of Pennsylvania, Mahidol University, Hokkaido University, Tohoku University, Universitas Indonesia, the World Health Organization, and Universitas Gadjah Mada. Our very own Dean Michelle Sunico Segarra from the University of the Philippines, was also among the distinguished lecturers, who promoted sustainable and resilient green dental practice. Each of the lectures were followed by assignments, quizzes, and collaborative group works, engaging and building a bond among participants despite being miles apart.
The on-site component, held from July 13 to 17, featured lectures facilitated by professors from Chulalongkorn University and Universitas Gadjah Mada, and hands-on workshops on digital dentistry and CBCT radiography. The delegates also had a University Tour, featuring the Faculty of Dentistry, University Library, University Wisdom Park, Religious Area, and RSGM-UGM Laboratories and Dental Hospital. Toyagama, UGM’s centralized drinking water system, indeed showcased true sustainable lifestyle.
The participants participated in a field visit to an elementary school in Yogyakarta, where they taught children about oral health and encouraged the application of sustainable practices in their daily lives. The delegates also used this opportunity to learn some phrases about the language native to Yogyakarta, Javanese, to communicate with the children. A mini project presentation was held to culminate the two-week preparation of each group.
To cap off the main event, the Cultural Night took place, where representatives from each participating university showcased their culture through much anticipated performances. The UPCD delegates brought home certain awards, including the Best Video Assignment award and Best in Costume.
Beyond the academic activities, the delegates had the opportunity to immerse themselves in Indonesian culture through visits to Keraton Yogyakarta, Sisa Hartaku Museum, and Batu Alien, as well as the Merapi Lava Tour, which offered a thrilling experience and a closer look at the natural and cultural heritage of Yogyakarta.
The delegates extend their sincere gratitude to the UGM-FKG organizing committee and everyone who contributed to IDSC 2026 for their warm hospitality and for providing an enriching academic and cultural experience, and to the University of the Philippines Manila College of Dentistry, especially to Dean Michelle Segarra, for the opportunity to participate in this unforgettable summer course. This experience left the student delegates with a heartfelt and lasting sense of appreciation and gratitude for all the lessons learned, friendships built, and memories created.

- Stephanie Red Contreras and Ana Margarita Ignacio

for the University


# University of the Philippines Manila

29/08/2026

UPCD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT EXCHANGE PROGRAM
2026 FKG UI Mid-Year Student Exchange Program
Universitas Indonesia
May 25 to June 5, 2026

Two students from the University of the Philippines Manila College of Dentistry, Florence Elise L. Bernardino and Kyla Cleneth M. Dumadag, embarked on a 12-day academic and cultural exchange program at the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia (FKG UI), the highest-ranked university in Indonesia, through the 2026 FKG UI Mid-Year Student Exchange Program.

Also joining the program were delegates from the University of Puthisastra, Cambodia, and the University of North Carolina, United States of America. The students received a warm welcome from Prof. Dr. Lisa R. Amir, Dean of FKG UI; Prof. Dr. Citra Kusumasari, Associate Dean for Partnership and International Affairs; as well as other faculty and non-faculty staff, and students of FKG UI. The gathering marked the introduction to the faculty and the academic community, setting the stage for meaningful experiences and interactions throughout the program.

One of the most valuable aspects of the program was the opportunity to observe various specialty departments of the Universitas Indonesia Dental Hospital (RSKGM) FKG UI. The clinical exposure of the students included Pediatric Dentistry, Orthodontics, Conservative Dentistry, Prosthodontics, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Oral Medicine, and the Integrated Clinics. Although many of the procedures and concepts were familiar, seeing a different institution gave the two students a fresh perspective on clinical education and an opportunity to observe how other dental institutions approach learning and patient care. More than that, the students also had the opportunity to interact and observe fellow dental students who were navigating experiences similar to their own. This allowed them to appreciate the common experiences dental students are exposed to, while also recognizing their differences.

The delegates also toured the Universitas Indonesia Hospital (RSUI), the first State Higher Education General Hospital in Indonesia, which serves as both a primary teaching hospital and a public medical facility. Moreover, clinical observations were conducted in the Periodontics Department, where the residents presented their cases on Guided Tissue Regeneration (GTR), under the supervision of Dr. Benso Sulijaya, a periodontist and professor at Universitas Indonesia. The students also attended a lecture by Dr. Aloysius Wijanarko and residents on Dental Radiology, wherein various cases were presented and discussed, particularly those involving dental implants. This allowed the students to gain insight into postgraduate clinical training and observe complex dental cases.

Beyond academic and clinical activities, the students also explored different parts of Jakarta and experienced Indonesian culture. They visited Aloha P*K 2, Chinatown P*K, and Old Town Jakarta, including the historic Cafe Batavia. They also visited Hometown, a well-known restaurant in Jakarta, Blok M Square, Museum Macan, and Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. Their cultural exploration also included visits to some of Jakarta’s most notable landmarks, such as Monumen Nasional (MONAS), Istiqlal Mosque, and Jakarta Cathedral. These excursions provided opportunities to experience Jakarta’s food, architecture, history, and culture while also spending meaningful time with their fellow exchange students.

The highlight of the exchange program was when the students participated in a community outreach program in Kampung Ilmu, Purwakarta, West Java, organized by the Faculty of Dentistry, Universitas Indonesia. The initiative focused on oral and general health promotion at the Kampung Ilmu community. The program was conducted in collaboration with several faculties of UI, including the Faculty of Medicine, Faculty of Nursing, Faculty of Economics and Business, and Faculty of Computer Science.

The students were also able to observe community-based activities, including oral health education for pregnant women and a lecture on how to be smart consumers. They also observed student clinicians from FKG UI provide oral health services to residents of Kampung Ilmu and elementary and high school students, including oral examinations and fluoride application.

This collaborative approach to the community program was a first-time experience for the UPCD students, and this became an opportunity to look at dentistry through a wider lens––extending beyond the clinics and classrooms, and into a broader interconnected global community. As stated by the founder of Kampung Ilmu, Prof. Imam Prasodjo, the goal was to create a community where everyone could come together to engage in a collaborative effort and support one another. Despite coming from different colleges and disciplines, the initiative sought to foster a sense of unity to serve the masses as one unified society, working collectively to address the healthcare needs of the people and contribute to the delivery of more holistic care. As he noted, “University, not diversity.”

The program concluded with a closing ceremony at FKG UI, where exchange students from the Philippines, the United States, and Cambodia presented their final reports and reflections on their 12-day experience at Universitas Indonesia. Following the presentations, certificates were awarded by the Dean of FKG UI, Prof. Dr. Lisa R. Amir, together with Prof. Dr. Citra Kusumasari and Prof. Dr. Diah Ayu Maharani.

The UPCD students are beyond grateful for the hospitality and meaningful learning experiences extended to them throughout their stay in Indonesia, especially to Ms. Siti Nadya Ulfa of the FKG UI Office of Partnerships and International Affairs, for her assistance throughout the program. They likewise extend their sincere appreciation to the UPCD Administration, particularly Dean Michelle Sunico Segarra, for their support and for providing the students with the opportunity to represent the Philippines and UPCD on the international stage with the global dental community.

– Florence Elise L. Bernardino and Kyla Cleneth M. Dumadag

for the University


# University of the Philippines Manila