Dr. Patricia Grace Cruz-Bautista

Whenever we stand here, we usually begin with, 'Good morning, consultants and co-residents! Today, I will be presenting a journal entitled... or a case presentation...' But today, I would like to greet our honored guests, our dear consultants, residents, and staff with a very good morning as I deliver my response as a graduate of the AEPD.

Ang sarap pala sa pakiramdam. Friday morning, dito sa conference room, walang nginig, at walang scheduled diarrhea na nagsisimula ng Thursday night.

When I received an email from Ate Mery with a graduation invitation attached, I had to re-read the content three times. I had to make sure she was really sending the email to me. I even asked her, 'Ate Mery? Ako ba talaga? Sa akin ba ito?' And she confirmed, saying, 'Doc, naka-address yan mismo sa pangalan mo… inviting you to YOUR graduation.' The last time I said this line was when I finished dentistry, but I am still so excited to say, 'Natatapos rin pala.'

There's so much to be said, but today I'll take this opportunity to thank the people who made this journey possible.

First and foremost, I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to my then-fiancé and now beloved husband, Zel, who stands by my side today. His unwavering support has been crucial to my professional growth in pediatric dentistry. TMI, but he actually graciously agreed to delay our wedding so I could pursue post-graduate training here, for which I will forever be profoundly thankful.

Secondly, to my parents and siblings. Though they are miles away, I want to express my deepest appreciation for their steadfast support in every way possible. From the start, they have been my greatest cheerleaders, offering both encouragement and the means to chase my dreams. Thank you, Mama, Daddy, Ate, and Alex, for always believing in me.

To our consultants, Dr. Fina, Dr. Georgia, Dr. Liza, Dr. Gia, Dr. Noel, Dr. Jasper, Dr. Ajae, Dr. Aileen, Dr. Nina, Dr. Daisy, Dr. Mia, Dr. Chibelle, and Dr. Cristina, thank you for being a wellspring of wisdom, knowledge, and expertise. Your guidance has been instrumental in shaping my learning experience. Completing this program has been exceptionally fulfilling, as the skills and insights you imparted have greatly advanced my capabilities as a dental professional, especially in pediatric dentistry.

To my junior residents, Dr. Shayne, Dr. Mark, and Dr. Bea: your presence was the daily motivation I needed to rise and face each day. You have been like siblings to me, making this residency not only bearable but truly memorable. I am so grateful for the shared experiences and unwavering encouragement you provided.

Drs. Karlo and Ajae, my seniors, my mentors, my dear friends, thank you for your never-ending guidance and support. You have always ensured that we, your juniors, are more than just okay. Your dedication to our well-being, both professionally and personally, has been invaluable. Thank you for generously sharing your knowledge and experiences, and for always being there to guide us.

To my batchmate, Dr. AF, how many times did we say 'AYOKO NA!!'? Hindi ko na alam at hindi ko na nabilang. But look at us now. We are FINALLY here. I cannot put into words how challenging this journey was, but we pulled through. I am so proud of us. We did it.

To the support staff, Ate Tin, Ate Dahl, Ate Mery, Mang Lando, Kuya Ian, Mother Jane, Mother Lorns, Ate Neris, maraming salamat sa gabay at tiyaga. Lalo na sayo, Ate Tin. Maraming salamat sa pag-intindi sa tigas ng ulo namin, lalo na ako, sa mga reklamo, sa pakikinig sa pagdaing dahil sa pagod, sa pagtatago at pagpupunas ng luha, at sa patuloy na pagsabi ng, 'Konti na lang, tapusin mo yan.' Mahal ka namin.

I would like to take this time to also acknowledge the people behind my residency life: Kai, my clinic manager and secretary, for taking care of my clinic while I was busy with reports and requirements. She took on all my frustrations and exhaustion. Luckily, hindi naman po siya nag-resign at hanggang ngayon, siya pa rin ang nag-aalaga sa clinic ko. Maraming salamat. My associate dentists, Dr. Lexine, Dr. Mia, and Dr. Gianne, for treating our patients and the clinic as if they were their own. They have consistently ensured that every patient receives the best treatment possible, and their commitment to maintaining the clinic's standards has been exceptional. Their hard work and support have been crucial in allowing me to focus on my residency and professional growth, and for that, I am truly thankful.

It’s remarkable to reflect on how we managed to make the most of our training despite the challenges posed by the pandemic. We were the batch of residents who adapted to a blend of online and in-person learning, navigating tech issues, mastering the donning and doffing of PPEs, and even coping with reduced patient volumes and shifting protocols. We faced uncertainties around infection control, adjustments to our clinical rotations, and the emotional toll of working through a global health crisis.

Amid these difficulties, PDC went above and beyond to uphold high educational standards and ensure our experience was as seamless and effective as possible. Their commitment to delivering exceptional training while adapting to our new realities was truly commendable. Thank you, PDC, for enabling us to thrive and grow as professionals during those challenging times.

The program offers much more than just addressing the dental needs of children and those with special needs; it fosters the personal qualities essential for truly earning our certificates. It challenges us to develop beyond technical skills, nurturing resilience, compassion, and professionalism necessary to excel in our field. Throughout my time here, the power of perseverance, the strength in teamwork, and the importance of staying curious and open to learning were greatly emphasized.

As we move forward, we hold the potential to make a difference in the country. Let us remember to pursue our dreams with passion and dedication, knowing that we are equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed. Though words may fall short of expressing my full appreciation, I want to conclude with a heartfelt thank you from the bottom of my heart for your support, guidance, and friendship. Here's to a future filled with shared successes and continued growth.