It was raining polka dots on the evening of December 8, 2008 when the members gathered for a joint thanksgiving celebration- the culmination of a successful president’s term and the coming Christmas. A festive mood was set with the green and red speckled invitation and backdrop, the pleasant tunes of a jazz singer and the surprisingly delicious yet healthy buffet.

After dinner, the induction ceremonies started off the program. Dr. Ireneo Bernardo, Secretary General of the Philippine Medical Association, led the oathtaking ceremony of the newly-elected Board of Directors- Drs. Bernadette Arcilla, Marcellano Cruz, Evelyn Gonzaga, Daisy Ismael, Eleanor Letran, Ma. Juliet Macarayo, Cecilia Rosete, Treasurer Lonabel Encarnacion, Secretary Rosalina Nadela, Vice President Ma.Teresita Gabriel and President Georgina Pastorfide.

After the pledges were given and hands shaken, it was time for the presentation of awards of the outgoing president Dr. Arnelfa Paliza. Now on its 4th year, the President’s Award is a special recognition given to institutions or individuals who have generously contributed time, talent and service to the attainment of the PDS mission and vision. Dr. Paliza graciously conferred the Presidential Appreciation Award to industry partners Schering Plough Corporation, Stiefel Philippines, UCB Philippines, Unilever Philippines, TBWA/Santiago Mangada Puno and Campaigns and Grey for their unwavering support and sponsorship of the PDS and its varied activities. She likewise presented the Presidential Recognition Award to the Skin Safety Campaign Core Group, Ethics Committee, Membership Committee, yPDS and the Administrative Manual Editors, in grateful acknowledgement of exemplary accomplishments. Sentiment mounted as Dr. Paliza honored Dr. Ma. Luz G. Aquino for distinguished service and Dr. Ma. Lorna F. Frez for leadership as PDS President with excellent achievements – truly something to emulate!

The merriment continued as the lure of wonderful prizes spurred the members to join the entertaining games including the bestin-polka-dots contest, won by Dr. Georgina Pastorfide. As everyone was in high spirits, the perfect ending to the night was a toast to the achievements of the year and a wish for better things to come. Salud!