On behalf of the more-than-30,000 members of ISPRM, the International Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine, I join the Philippine Academy of Rehabilitation Medicine in celebrating its 50th year. I am very excited to join PARM’s 35th annual convention in February, especially because it will be held at The Manila Hotel, where many of my childhood memories were made.

PARM has distinguished itself as being one of the most active national society members of the ISPRM. It is one of the few around the world that has successfully convinced its national government of the value of physical and rehabilitation medicine by having a presidential declaration of a “National Physiatry Day” every July 17th. The many achievements and activities of PARM have become paradigms for successful advocacy, education and clinical care. PARM’s hymn, which promotes its mission, vision and core values, even inspired the ISPRM to come up with its own anthem to help convey its own mission and aspirations all over the globe.

I have no doubt that PARM will successfully soon bring to fruition its mission: “By 2027, to be at the forefront of functional wellness, education, research, and practice of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine making services available towards community inclusion.” Indeed, PARM is a “sinag” that casts a bright light for the future of physical and rehabilitation medicine.

Congratulations to PARM, and thank you for making me even prouder than I already am to be a Filipino on the global PRM stage.