In-photo: OPM Band, Ben&Ben, performing for the MakatiMed community and event guests.
Makati Medical Center (MakatiMed) celebrated the 30th anniversary of its Laser Center under the Department of Dermatology on September 30, 2025, with a meaningful program in collaboration with Breast Imaging Center and Department of Psychiatry at the 8F Tower 2 Auditorium. With the theme “Courage,” the event honored patients facing skin and breast cancer, as well as those navigating mental health challenges, while paying tribute to the compassion and dedication of the hospital’s doctors, nurses, and staff.
In his opening remarks, Interim Co-President & CEO and Medical Director Saturnino P. Javier, MD, commended the cooperation among the Dermatology, Radiology, and Psychiatry Departments, emphasizing, “Unity and collaboration are highlighted by the several departments, and that has always been the flagship of Makati Medical Center—we collaborate at every important activity.”
The program featured Ryan Raymond Y. Bautista, MD, Head of the MakatiMed Wellness Center, who shared an overview of its services; Donna Marie L. Sarrosa, MD, Chairperson of the Department of Dermatology, who traced the history of laser dermatology and introduced Dermagraphix, the country’s first advanced skin cancer detection technology; and Julie Anne Patricia M. Songco, MD, who underscored the role of dermoscopy in early detection through her lecture “Dermo-scope: Zeroing in on Early Skin Cancer.” Socio-civic leader Elizabeth Eder Zobel de Ayala also shared her advocacy for cancer prevention, followed by a message from broadcast journalist Bernadette Sembrano who expressed her appreciation for the hospital for the warmth and excellence she experienced in her every visit. Maria Luz Espinosa, MD highlighted the importance of imaging in breast cancer detection and Genevere Serna-Santos, MD recounted the history of the Breast Imaging Center. In line with Mental Health Awareness Month, Joaquim Gerardo L. Jurilla, MD, a second-year resident, presented on MakatiMed’s holistic approach to care, underscoring that healing goes beyond the physical.
The celebration culminated with “An Evening with Music and Advocacy”, starting with a surprise dance number from the LeBran dancers, a group of doctors. The event also featured OPM band Ben&Ben, whose music inspired hope, connection, and comfort among attendees.
Through this event, MakatiMed reaffirmed its mission to provide compassionate, innovative, and holistic care, supporting every patient’s journey to healing and wellness.
