By Keji Agbulos (Class 2027)
Cover Photo courtesy of Sichuan Edward Rayco (Class 2022)
Graduates of the UP College of Medicine Class of 2022 conducted a lightning rally during the 113th Commencement Exercise of the UP College of Medicine held in University Theater, UP Diliman last August 7, 2022. The graduates raised their concerns and echoed calls for healthcare reform, human rights protection, and social justice.
After reciting the hippocratic oath, representatives from UPCM Class of 2022 assembled in front of the stage, carrying banners inscribed with their concerns and protests. Upholding their strong drive, passion, and determination, the graduates courageously chanted:
“Iskolar ng bayan, ngayon ay lumalaban!
Kalusugan! Karapatan ng mamamayan!
Makibaka! Huwag matakot!”
Dr. Danna Lee Acosta, one of the graduates, led the rally and addressed her fellow scholars and physicians in a powerful speech. She emphasized that their graduation symbolizes a new beginning as they tread their respective paths toward service to the Filipino people.
Moreover, Dr. Acosta urged her fellow doctors to serve as a light to the masses in the same manner their patients have served as theirs. She added, “Ipagtanggol natin ang kanilang karapatan sa libre, komprehensibo, at dekalidad na serbisyong pangkalusugan, sa nakabubuhay na sahod, sa permanenteng trabaho, libreng edukasyon, hustisya, at proteksiyon mula sa paglabag ng mga karapatang pantao.” According to her, this is crucial especially now that our country is preceded by corrupt and deceitful leaders.
“Mga doktor ng bayan, paglingkuran ang sambayanan! Protektahan natin ang mamamayan! Sama-sama nating labanan ang mga kanser ng lipunan! Itakwil ang rehimeng Marcos-Duterte!”
Up until the conclusion of her speech, Dr. Acosta compelled her fellow doctors to stand their ground and fight for the rights of our nation and our countrymen.
The said rally is the first ever lightning rally conducted by the UP College of Medicine. Padayon, mga bagong doktor ng bayan! Continue to be the light that the Filipino people need.