Written by: Jude Daniel Aquino & Dr. Edgar Allan Pangisban
Partnerships and Education. The University of Baguio (UB) School of Dentistry, spearheaded by the Dentistry Clinicians Club Officers (DCC), under the supervision of Dr. Irish G. Mascareñas, Chief of Clinics, and the Student Administrative Council (SAC), successfully organized the Dental Trade Fair 2025 on August 19–20, 2025, at the Centennial Hall. The two-day academic and industry-focused event attended by 85 students and joined by at least 20 dentists who are alumni of the University served as a platform for learning, innovation, and collaboration, aligning with the values and targets of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDGs 3, 4, and 17: Good Health and Well-Being, Quality Education, and Partnerships for the Goals. The trade fair also promotes partnerships with various private business sectors to bolster material and equipment availability and improve dental education through its utilization.
The trade fair formally commenced with opening remarks delivered by Dr. Ian Steve Bandaay, Dean of the School of Dentistry, who emphasized the significance of bridging theoretical education with practical innovation. He underscored how dentistry students should maximize opportunities provided by events such as this—avenues that not only enrich academic knowledge but also foster meaningful connections with peers, suppliers, and practicing professionals in the dental field.
The fair featured a wide array of exhibitors including New Medsurdent, Denpress Dental Depot, New Citizens Dental Supply, J. Chenny Enterprises Inc., Alphadent, Amarrijje, and Frontier Dental Products. These partners showcased the latest advancements in dental tools, equipment, and materials. Students, faculty members, alumni, and representatives from other dental schools in Baguio were able to explore cutting-edge products that are shaping the future of oral healthcare. This integration of academia and industry reflected the essence of SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals, underscoring that innovation in dentistry is best advanced through collaboration.
A highlight of the event was the lecture series delivered by Dr. Ezra Emmanuel B. Ching, DDM, a highly accomplished oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Dr. Ching graduated from the University of the Philippines College of Dentistry and has pursued extensive postgraduate training, including hospital dentistry at the Metropolitan Medical Center, a Master of Science in Dentistry (Major in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery) from Mahidol University in Bangkok, Thailand, and clinical attachments at the National University of Singapore. He has also undergone specialized training in implantology, esthetic dentistry, and periodontology, making him a respected authority in his field.
During his lecture, Dr. Ching presented on “Mastering Suture Materials and Flap Designs in Third Molar Surgery,” where he discussed advanced surgical techniques and considerations for complex extractions. He also shared insights from his research titled “In Vitro Study of Tensile Strength Comparison of Selected Nonabsorbable and Absorbable Suture Materials after Immersion in 0.12% Chlorhexidine Gluconate.” This study provided a scientific basis for selecting appropriate suture materials in clinical practice, offering UB students a practical and research-driven perspective on surgical decision-making.
Beyond academic enrichment, the trade fair fostered an engaging and interactive environment. Students actively participated in dentistry-themed games, raffle draws, and other fun activities, with prizes generously sponsored by dental suppliers nationwide. These activities promoted camaraderie and allowed students to connect with peers in a lighter, yet equally meaningful, context. Alumni of the School of Dentistry were also present, reuniting with former colleagues, reconnecting with their alma mater, and engaging with the latest industry innovations. This intergenerational interaction reinforced the sense of community within the UB School of Dentistry while also providing professional insights for current students.
More than just an academic gathering, the UB Dentistry Trade Fair 2025 was a concrete demonstration of how health, education, and partnerships can converge to shape the future of oral healthcare. By providing exposure to cutting-edge technologies, equipping students with advanced clinical knowledge, and fostering collaboration with industry and alumni, the event reflected the University of Baguio’s dedication to the SDGs.The UB Dentistry Trade Fair 2025 was more than just an exhibition of products and research. It was a celebration of knowledge, innovation, and community spirit. The event reinforced the University of Baguio’s strong commitment to sustainable development while inspiring its students to strive for excellence in their profession. As the next generation of dental practitioners, UB students are empowered not only to create brighter smiles but also to contribute meaningfully to healthier and more sustainable communities in the years ahead.
