From the Editor’s Desk

A Triumph of Tradition and Togetherness: The 32nd USTMAAA Grand Reunion and Clinical  Convention in Chicago  

By Dionisio B. Yorro, Jr., MD, FACC, Executive Director, USTMAAA 

The spirit of unity and excellence radiated through the halls of the O'Hare Hyatt Regency Hotel in Chicago  from June 18–22, as Thomasians from across the United States and the Philippines converged for the  32nd USTMAAA Grand Reunion and Clinical Convention. Helmed masterfully by Convention  Chairpersons Drs. Zita B. Yorro and Stella Evangelista, the four-day event stood as a glowing testament to  tradition, camaraderie, and visionary leadership. Adding further distinction to the event were esteemed guests  from the Philippines, including Rev. Fr. Julius Factora, CEO of UST Hospital; Dr. Charito Malong Consolacion, UST  Hospital’s Medical Director; and Dr. Minerva Calimag, President of USTMAA Philippines. Their presence  underscored the deep, ongoing connection between the international Thomasian community and its roots in  Manila. 

BOD Meeting: Strategy, Progress, and Purpose 

The convention opened with pivotal board meetings of the USTMAAA and its Foundation, tackling current  affairs and laying the groundwork for future directions. Progress reports from distinguished VIPs,  including Rev. Fr. Julius Factora and Dr. Charito Malong Consolacion, highlighted the vital role USTMAAA plays in reviving the University Hospital through generous donations and innovative in-house medical missions, mobilized by Foundation President Dr. Regina Flores. Dr. Minerva Calimag also gave her report on the USTMAA Philippines achievements and activities. While Rector Rev. Fr. Richard Ang and Dean Odette Maglinao couldn’t attend in person, Dean Maglinao delivered a heartfelt report via Zoom, detailing advancements in the USTFMS and the Simulation Center. Disbursement of funds for the designated projects for the year were also laid out and approved by the Board. 

Opening Ceremony: Honoring Roots, Celebrating Progress 

Hosted by the USTMAA Midwest Chapter under Dr. Raffy Castro, the Opening Ceremony paid homage to Chicago—the birthplace of the USTMAAA. The tribute extended to the pioneering figure, Dr. Joe Evangelista who envisioned an umbrella organization unifying all the different alumni chapters. The late Dr. Rodrigo Floro and Dr. Gregorio Tolentino were recognized and honored as the first President of the USTMAAA and Foundation respectively. An inspirational keynote by Marcus Evangelista, ESQ. MBA, praised the tireless work of USTMAAA officers and reaffirmed the organization's mission. 

Legacy of Excellence and the Next Generation 

The convention saw record-breaking attendance of younger generations, many of whom were second generation UST graduates. Their participation as Continuing Medical Education (CME) speakers signified  a thriving legacy of Thomasian excellence. Attendees received 8 hours of CME credits, thanks to  sponsorship from the Philippine Medical Association in Chicago. 

Reunions and Revelry

Class reunions offered spaces to reconnect, reminisce, and rekindle friendships. The evening was  livened by karaoke sessions featuring spirited performances of singing and dancing—true testaments to  the Thomasian zest for life. 

Intelligence and Insight 

A special session on Artificial Intelligence provided a glimpse into cutting-edge innovations, while the Townhall Meeting allowed members to directly engage with University VIPs, posing poignant questions about future plans and initiatives. 

A Family Affair: Children’s Fashion Show 

A delightful children’s fashion show added a charming layer to the festivities, spotlighting the next generation. Grandparents beamed as their grandchildren dazzled the audience with charisma and flair— infusing warmth into an already vibrant celebration. 

Jubilarian Night: Hawaiian Luau of Honor 

Jubilarian Night, wrapped in a lively Hawaiian Luau theme, saw Jubilarians march and dance to their  selected tunes and receive heartfelt recognition. The spotlight shone especially bright on these honorees as the Most Outstanding Jubilarians selected by their classmates: 

Jubilarian Award Honorees 

Platinum Jubilarian Dr. Adoracion Palacio Chang, Class 1955 

Diamond Jubilarian Dr. Domingo Alvear, Class 1965 

Emerald Jubilarian The Whole Class of 1970 

Golden Jubilarian Dr. Rene Romero, Class 1975 

Sapphire Jubilarian Dr. Lito Reyes, Class 1980 

Ruby Jubilarian Dr. Marieta de Guzman, Class 1985  

Gala Night & Farewell: A Celebration of Excellence, A Benediction of Purpose 

The Gala Night brought a crescendo of elegance and pride to the 32nd USTMAAA Grand Reunion and  Clinical Convention. Beneath glittering chandeliers and to the rhythm of joyous celebration, the evening  became more than a formal affair—it became a hallmark of heritage, leadership, and recognition. 

A Triple Induction: Strengthening the Pillars of Leadership 

The night served as the ceremonial platform for the Triple Induction of Officers—an extraordinary moment for the: 

• USTMAAA

• USTMAAA Foundation 

• USTMAA Midwest Chapter 

Each induction reflected renewed commitment to service, unity, and strategic vision for the future.  Incoming officers stood ready to shepherd their respective organizations with purpose and resolve. 

Gala Night Extravaganza: Legacy in Motion, Elegance in Harmony 

The Gala Night at the 32nd USTMAAA Grand Reunion dazzled as a true crescendo of artistry, leadership,  and heritage. Beneath its formal grandeur blossomed moments of pure joy and celebration, reflecting the  vibrancy of Thomasian spirit. 

Jubilarian Class Presentations: A Show of Unity 

One of the evening’s most anticipated segments was the Jubilarian Class Presentations, where each  group took the stage to deliver heartfelt dance routines and musical numbers. The performances were  full of enthusiasm and nostalgia, delighting the audience and strengthening bonds of camaraderie across  generations. 

Intermission Performances: Grace, Rhythm, and Melody 

Between inductions and tributes, the Gala featured invited guest entertainers who brought elegance  and charm to the program: 

• Dr. Manon G. Manahan and partner waltzed in a captivating ballroom dance, dressed with  timeless sophistication. 

• Local students swayed gracefully in a hula performance, offering a cultural nod that  complemented the evening's tropical theme. 

• Soulful renditions from Dr. Luisa Corpuz, Dr. Jess Chua, and Mr. Christopher Yorro added  melodic warmth, evoking cheers and heartfelt applause from attendees. 

These musical interludes and graceful dances reminded everyone of the multifaceted brilliance in the  Thomasian community—where doctors and professionals also shine as artists and performers. 

Shining the Spotlight: Most Outstanding Thomasian Alumni 

The highlight of the evening was the formal honoring of exceptional alumni, whose contributions  continue to illuminate the Thomasian legacy. Their names were announced with pride, their stories  shared with admiration: 

Award Category Honoree 

Most Outstanding Alumnus of 2025 Dr. Antonio Buendia, Class 1975

Award Category Honorees 

Academic Achievement Dr. Marieta de Guzman, Class 1985 and Dr. Alfonso Estrada, Class 1975 

Service to Alma Mater Dr. Gerry Flores, Class 1979 and Dr. Ferdinand Ramos, Class 1980 

Community Service Dr. Lucio Margallo, Class 1970 and Drs. Domingo and Veneranda Alvear, Class 1965 

Special Recognition Award to an Unsung Hero for his unwavering dedication and service to our organization. Dr. Eugene Salazar, Class 1975 

Their recognition served not only as personal tributes but as inspiring reminders that Thomasian excellence transcends time and touches lives far beyond the campus walls. 

From heartfelt tributes and CME excellence to joyous reunions and intergenerational connection, the  convention embodied the very ethos of the USTMAAA: a living legacy of dedication, unity, and Thomasian  pride. 

A Benediction of Gratitude: Sunday Mass and Closing Moments 

As the final day of the Grand Reunion dawned, Thomasians gathered once more—not just to celebrate,  but to give thanks. A solemn yet joy-filled Mass for a successful reunion was concelebrated by Rev. Fr.  Julius Factora and Fr. Cesar Pajarillo of Chicago, bringing the weekend’s rich tapestry of events to a spiritually uplifting close.