28/04/2026
NOMINATIONS FOR THE PDA DISTINGUISHED AWARDS
MEMORANDUM NO. 2026-17
TO : ALL PDA MEMBERS
FROM: OFFICE OF THE PRESIDENT
DATE : APRIL 27, 2026
SUBJECT: NOMINATIONS FOR THE PDA DISTINGUISHED AWARDS
The Philippine Dental Association Inc. (PDA) Awards Committee is pleased to announce that it is now accepting nominations for the Distinguished Awards for this year.
These awards aim to recognize exemplary individuals who have demonstrated outstanding service, leadership, and dedication to the dental profession and to the community. We encourage all members to participate in this meaningful endeavor by submitting nominations for qualified candidates in the following award categories:
A. The St. Apollonia Pillar of Dentistry Award
Named in honor of St. Apollonia, the patron saint of dentistry, this prestigious award is the highest recognition bestowed by the Philippine Dental Association Inc. It honors a distinguished individual who embodies the ideals of excellence, leadership, and service in the dental profession.
The recipient must be a previous honoree of the Capitán Cheng-Cheng Award, signifying a foundational legacy in Philippine dentistry. This award celebrates a lifetime of commitment to clinical excellence, professional integrity, and unwavering dedication to advancing oral health and uplifting communities.
· Previous Capitán Cheng-Cheng Awardee: The nominee must have previously received the Capitán Cheng-Cheng Award, recognizing their foundational contributions and excellence in the dental profession.
· Outstanding Contribution to the Dental Profession: Demonstrated sustained impact and leadership in the advancement of dentistry through clinical excellence, education, research, or organizational service.
· Service and Ethical Integrity: A consistent record of ethical practice, community engagement, and advocacy for public oral health, with a reputation for professionalism and integrity within the dental community.
B. The Capitán Cheng-Cheng Award for Dental Excellence
This is a prestigious recognition conferred by the Philippine Dental Association Inc. It honors individuals whose contributions have significantly impacted the dental profession both locally and globally, reflecting the pioneering spirit of José Arévalo, also known as Capitán Cheng-Cheng, the first Filipino dentist.
· Excellence in Professional Practice: Demonstrated skill and ethical standards in clinical work and patient care.
· Leadership and Advocacy: Significant contributions to the advancement of dental education, public health, and international dental organizations.
· Global Impact and Legacy: Recognition on a global scale, including contributions to global dental forums and mentoring future dental professionals.
C. The Outstanding Public Health Dentist of the Year
Recognizes a dentist who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and advocacy in improving public health through oral health initiatives. This award honors their dedication to enhancing access to care, reducing health disparities, and mentoring future dental professionals.
· Leadership and Innovation: Demonstrates leadership in developing and implementing public health programs that improve oral health access and outcomes, especially in underserved communities.
· Community Impact and Advocacy: Actively works to reduce health disparities by advocating for oral health policies and providing direct services to vulnerable populations.
· Collaboration and Education: Collaborates with healthcare providers and community organizations, while also mentoring and educating future dental professionals.
Kindly submit your nominations on or before May 6, 2026. Please send a letter of nomination, professional biography of the nominee, supporting documents, and a brief impact statement to: [email protected]. Let us take this opportunity to honor those who continue to uphold excellence in the field of dentistry.
Thank you.
Respectfully,
DR. ALVIN M. LAXAMANA
Chairman, Awards Committee
Philippine Dental Association Inc.
PDA President 2020-2021
Noted by:
DR. LUCILO G. NIÑAL JR.
President
Philippine Dental Association Inc. 2025–2026
