To the esteemed members of the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology,

It is a great honor and privilege for having been elected as President of the PSG for this fiscal year 2018-2019. I am deeply humbled to be given the trust and the opportunity to steer this esteemed society to even greater heights and towards accomplishing our shared goals. These would only be possible with the continued support of the Officers, Board of Directors, and members of the society.

As an organization, we have the mandate not only to provide better care to our patients with digestive diseases but more importantly, to improve the GI health of every Filipino. With this, we will continue to advocate for the prevention of colorectal cancer by formally working with the appropriate government agencies. The Councils will be further strengthened to create a greater impact on the treatment and prevention of GI diseases. Establishment of more chapters will be encouraged so that regional and local concerns of our beneficiaries will be efficiently addressed.

Lastly, we will not forget the role of the society in the training of future gastroenterologists. The Standard Fellowship Program will be fully implemented but will be fine-tuned to be aligned with the Outcome Based Education (OBE) model. Graduates and Associate members will be supported in their goal of being Diplomates and Fellows of our society. Likewise, a formal program for the formation of Trainers will be designed.

Again, my heartfelt thanks to the members of the Philippine Society of Gastroenterology. I will endeavor to serve to the fullest of my abilities and I look forward to working with you.