This year’s 45th Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) Annual Convention was held on May 10-13, 2015 at the new Marriott Hotel Grand Ballroom, Newport Complex, Pasay City with a theme “Leading with Integrity, Healing with Compassion”. Rheumatology fellows from the University of Santo Tomas Hospital (USTH) participated in the event which started with induction of new members and diplomates. USTH first year Rheumatology fellows Dr. Elaine Venegas and Dr. Lorielyn Salvador were inducted as new PCP diplomates on May 10, 2015 during the opening ceremonies at Newport Performing Arts Theater (NPAT).

The PCP exemplar awards for 2015 were also conferred during the opening ceremonies to the Most Distinguished Physician for 2015, along with the most outstanding physicians in Clinical Education, Clinical Research, Clinical Practice, Healthcare Advocacy, and Community Development. These awards are given to distinguished internists in recognition for their outstanding achievements and contribution in the field of Internal Medicine through research, teaching, clinical practice, advocacy, community development and service to the College.

Plenary sessions, convention symposium, breakout sessions, informatics sessions, clinical updates and daily free communication poster sessions were held during the 3-day convention. Speakers for the scientific symposiums tackled important information and recent advances in their area of expertise that are crucial to the medical practice of the Filipino internist. Among the speakers was our very own Dr. Julie T. Li-Yu who discussed new information and recent guidelines on gouty arthritis and osteoporosis in one of the symposium held on Day 1 of the convention

The convention featured more than 50 booths on display and several hospitality/service areas set up in cooperation with pharmaceutical companies.
Election for a new Board of Regents transpired as Dr. Anthony Leachon concluded his term as the 50th PCP President. PCP members were allowed to cast their