At the heart of this gathering were calls to rethink what education means in a rapidly changing world – from digital transformation and climate resilience to health‑sector readiness and cross‑sectoral collaboration.

GCM’s Presence and Purpose 

Represented by Dr. Felisse Marianne Z. San Juan, Chief Internationalization Officer, and Mr. Aldren H. Hila, International Linkages Officer, GCM did more than attend, it actively engaged. The team positioned GCM not just as a medical college, but as a prospective partner in Asia’s evolving human‑capital ecosystem: 

– In the Forum’s networking area, GCM displayed collaterals and program profiles for all participants to peruse a deliberate move to showcase GCM’s offerings and internationalization vision. 

– Interactions with ministers, education leaders, and institutional representatives opened doors for potential collaborations, exchange programs, and even future campus visits in Cebu. 

– With ADB’s emphasis on future‑oriented sectors including health, aging care, green economies, and technology‑enabled services, GCM’s medical program gains renewed relevance. 

ADB’s Clarion Call and Why It Resonates 

In his keynote, Hon. Masato Kanda, President of Asian Development Bank (ADB), urged stakeholders to view education as the most strategic investment in the region. He spoke of bold partnerships, cross‑sector cooperation, and the urgent need to align education systems

with evolving labor markets, from AI and tech to biotechnology, healthcare, and sustainable development. 

This message aligns closely with GCM’s aspirations to internationalize, expand its reach, and contribute to human capital development especially in health education. 

What GCM Gains and What Lies Ahead 

By stepping into the region’s premier education‑policy forum, GCM signals readiness for cross‑border collaborations, attracting interest from embassies, universities, agencies, and NGO partners, and conversations with education ministers, institutional heads, and international development agencies created a rich pipeline of potential partnerships from student exchange, joint research, to international recruitment and funding collaborations. 

GCM’s Promise to the Region: From Participation to Purposeful Action 

GCM’s involvement in the 2025 ADB Forum was more than an institutional appearance, it was a strategic milestone. By showing up, showcasing, engaging, and extending invitations, GCM has shifted from observer to participant in Asia’s education‑development conversation. 

Moving forward, what counts is not just the presence but the follow‑through: forging partnerships, mobilizing networks, refining curricula, and aligning institutional strategy with regional priorities. After Manila, GCM is no longer simply a medical college in Cebu — it is now a rising node in Asia’s evolving human‑capital ecosystem. 

For GCM’s leaders, faculty, and stakeholders: Congratulations and the horizon just expanded. The journey ahead is ambitious, but after this Forum, it’s also vastly more possible. 

The FMGE is a rigorous qualifying exam administered by India’s National Board of Examinations, required for Indian medical graduates to obtain a license to practice medicine in their home country. Passing it is a significant milestone that reflects not only academic excellence but also the commitment to compassionate patient care—values deeply ingrained in GCM’s mission of Love, Service, Humanity.

To our newly licensed doctors, your success shines as an inspiration to current and future GCM students. You have demonstrated that with focus, hard work, and a heart for service, dreams of becoming a globally competitive physician can be realized.

Congratulations, Doctors!
Your alma mater stands proud as you embark on your next chapter of professional service and leadership in the medical field.

For more updates and inspiring stories from our graduates, follow us on our official social media channels.

From Arthur Schopenhauer’s statement:

“Man can do what he wills, but he cannot will what he wills.”

To Leo Tolstoy’s words:

“You say: I am not free. But I have raised and lowered my arm. Everyone understands that this illogical answer is an irrefutable proof of freedom.”

Wonderers about the reality of human life split into many groups, arguing whether free will or determinism defines our reality—or if it is a gray, ambiguous zone that blends both and lacks clear boundaries in between.

Free Will Libertarians

Free Will Libertarians argue that humans have genuine freedom to make choices that are not determined by prior causes or physical laws. We are the ones moving the ship and exploring the seas. They claim that at least some of our actions originate in us as free, rational agents, and that we could have chosen otherwise in the exact same situation.

Determinists

Determinists argue that every event, action, and decision is the inevitable result of preceding causes. We are merely the children of our environment, our genetics shaping us as they decide. Passive viewers with the false perception of choice. In this view, nothing happens by chance or genuine choice—everything unfolds according to prior conditions.

Don’t worry, you are still on Gullas Medical School’s page, not a philosophy site.

The human body reflects the reality of many things in the natural world, giving the perception that it’s all connected or reflective of one another.

From the very first lectures of medical school, students encounter the autonomic and somatic nervous systems.

The autonomic nervous system is responsible for involuntary actions, as is well known—breathing, heartbeat, hormone regulation. It embodies the essence of determinism and the lack of complete free will.

The somatic nervous system is responsible for voluntary actions, showing that even at this basic level of medical science, free will is a reality—though partial. You can choose what to eat but not how to digest it, or you can decide to pause and resume eating, but not the biochemical process of digestion itself.

The overlap between the two concepts appears in examples like holding your breath, even though breathing is normally an involuntary action. Such moments highlight the unclear boundaries between our choices and the forces that determine them.

Of course, it’s nowhere near as simple as that. This is an argument that continues to emerge at every level of medical science.

• The Prefrontal Cortex (PFC) is responsible for executive functions like planning, reasoning, weighing alternatives, resisting impulses, and delaying gratification.
• The Anterior Cingulate Cortex (ACC) detects conflicts between impulses and goals, helping in self-control and error monitoring.
• The Orbitofrontal Cortex (OFC) weighs rewards and consequences and is involved in moral and emotional decision-making.

All of these lean in favor of Free Will Libertarians.

On the other hand, hormones like cortisol, serotonin, and testosterone influence our decisions and actions. Genetic traits and even gut bacteria modulate mood and cognition via the gut–brain axis.

These all support the Determinists’ worldview.

I really hope you didn’t expect an answer to this centuries-old philosophical and biological debate in a simple blog written by a first-year medical student. I never promised one, and I definitely don’t have the qualifications, time, or space to give a definitive medical answer.

But the goal is to raise a question in the reader’s conscious self—one that might one day help them reach their own conclusion.

Thank you.

– Abdalgadir Abdalmonem Hamza
MD 1-B

Dr. Fernando captivated the audience with a thoughtful and engaging discussion on how timeless wisdom can be applied to today’s fast-paced, stressful world. His talk blended science, mindfulness, and practical approaches to managing daily pressures, resonating deeply with students, educators, and professionals alike.

A Gathering of Institutions

The event was made even more memorable by the presence of our esteemed guests from partner schools and organizations:

• University of the Visayas
• Southwestern University PHINMA
• Mandaue City College
• Northeastern Cebu Colleges Inc.
• Department of Education
• Cebu Technological University

We extend our heartfelt thanks for their participation and support in this academic and wellness-driven endeavor.

The GCM Community at the Heart of It

Of course, the symposium would not have been complete without the active engagement of our very own students, faculty, and staff. Their enthusiasm and commitment to lifelong learning and personal growth highlight GCM’s mission of developing future doctors who embody not only knowledge and skill, but also resilience and compassion. 💚

The Ancient Life Hacks for Modern Stressors symposium truly showcased how GCM continues to foster a holistic medical education—one that balances scientific excellence with the wisdom of human experience.

Over the course of two days, GCM faculty members participated in a series of lectures, workshops, and interactive activities designed to strengthen their skills in crafting, administering, and interpreting examinations and other forms of assessments. The program placed emphasis on creating test items that are valid, reliable, and aligned with the intended learning outcomes, while also considering fairness and compassion for the diverse backgrounds of students.

Dr. Panopio highlighted the importance of using a wide range of assessment tools—not only traditional written tests but also performance-based evaluations, case analyses, and practical examinations. Faculty members were encouraged to explore strategies that measure both knowledge and clinical competence, ensuring that GCM students are evaluated holistically and prepared for the rigors of medical practice.

The training also gave space for open dialogue, where faculty participants exchanged experiences, challenges, and best practices. This collaborative approach strengthened camaraderie among educators and inspired a collective commitment to raising academic standards. By the end of the program, attendees left with renewed confidence and a deeper understanding of how testing and assessment can be powerful tools in shaping the next generation of physicians.

Gullas College of Medicine extends its heartfelt thanks to Dr. Agaton Panopio Jr. for leading this program and for his invaluable contribution to faculty growth. His guidance has reinforced GCM’s mission to deliver “The Finest Training for the Highest Calling”—a commitment not only to our students but also to the continued professional development of our faculty.

The event gathered students, friends, and academic leaders from across various Cebu-based institutions in a vibrant celebration of academic achievement, service, and unity. One of the highlights of the program was the Recognition Ceremony, which saw several students awarded for their academic excellence, leadership, and community service — a tribute to the dedication and drive that define the Nigerian student community in Cebu.

Adding significance to the event was the much-anticipated Executive Election of NANS-Cebu for Academic Year 2025–2026. GCM proudly emerged as a stronghold of leadership, with four of the six newly elected provincial officers hailing from its student body. The results of the election were as follows:

• President: Onyeugo Benedict – University of San Carlos
• Vice President: Andie Crimo Mangonie – Gullas College of Medicine
• Secretary: Alex-Ibe Kennedy – Gullas College of Medicine
• Financial Secretary/Treasurer: Mike Ekwo – Gullas College of Medicine
• Public Relations Officer: Chiamaka Okuagu – Gullas College of Medicine
• Assistant Secretary: Shola Kehinde Emmanuel – University of the Visayas Colon

This development marks a proud milestone for the GCM community, highlighting its continued commitment to nurturing future leaders who embody excellence and service not just within the campus but across the wider academic and cultural landscape of Cebu.

GCM extends its heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and the new set of officers. We look forward to the continued growth, unity, and outstanding achievements of the Nigerian student community in the years ahead.

#GCMRising
#NANSCEBU2025
#GlobalGCM
#CelebratingExcellence
#InternationalCommunity

His research spans oncology, neurophysiology, and public health. He has a solo-authored study that reviews the therapeutic potential of plant-based compounds in cancer treatment, with attention to molecular pathways and drug delivery innovations. Another co-authored paper investigates the neurological effects of marijuana use in patients with cannabis-induced psychosis, using fMRI and biochemical analysis to support its findings.

In his solo-authored paper on natural compounds and cancer treatment, Uchenna explores how plant-based substances—such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and terpenoids—can help fight cancer. He explains how these natural molecules can trigger cancer cell death, reduce harmful stress in the body, and block the signals that allow tumors to grow. His work positions these compounds as promising options to support or even enhance traditional cancer treatments.

In another major project, Uchenna collaborated in a study on how marijuana affects the brain, particularly in people who developed psychotic disorders from frequent cannabis use. Using brain scans and lab tests, they examined 30 patients and found some striking results: the part of the brain responsible for memory (the hippocampus) had shrunk by over 12%, while the area linked to emotion (the amygdala) had grown by nearly 10%. They also saw a sharp increase in dopamine, a brain chemical involved in mood and behavior.

These discoveries point to the need for better screening and mental health assessments for people who regularly use marijuana. The study suggests that brain imaging should become a routine part of psychiatric care and calls for stronger public education to protect people at risk—especially young and vulnerable populations.

Beyond these two key studies, Uchenna has also worked on several other researches. He co-authored a paper on how children’s bone marrow reacts to different levels of malaria infection, published via African Journals Online (AJOL). 

Uchenna has also contributed to studies on clinical behavior, pediatric malaria, and sustainable pharmaceutical practices. In addition to his academic work, he serves as President of the Nigerian Students Association (NSA) Cebu and has been active in student leadership and medical outreach initiatives.

Through his research and advocacy, Uchenna reflects Gullas College of Medicine’s aim to train doctors who are both scientifically grounded and socially responsible.

#GCMRising #GCMExcellence #MedschoolPH #TheFinestTrainingfortheHighestCalling #GCMResearch

Bringing together doctors, nurses, and volunteers from various batches and specialties, the mission offered free medical consultations, screenings, and minor procedures to underserved members of the community. It was a meaningful expression of the Tatak Gullas spirit—rooted in compassion, competence, and community service.

The services provided included:

• General Surgery: Minor surgical procedures and consultations
• OB-GYN: VIA screening and women’s health services
• Dermatology: Skin disease treatment and lesion removal
• Ophthalmology: Visual acuity exams and cataract screening
• ENT: Consultations and minor procedures
• Internal Medicine: Cardiology, neurology, pulmonology, and endocrinology consultations
• Pediatrics: Child health consultations and well-baby checkups
• Orthopedics & Pediatric Surgery: Specialist assessments

What made the mission even more impactful was the collaboration between alumni and the current GCM community. Medical students and staff from Gullas College of Medicine were on-site throughout the day—volunteering their time, assisting in logistics, coordinating patient flow, and providing support across all areas of the mission. It was a vibrant display of intergenerational teamwork, where seasoned doctors worked alongside future physicians, united by a common purpose.

While the medical mission stood at the heart of the weekend, it was part of a broader celebration of knowledge, service, and solidarity. On July 13, alumni gathered once again at GCM for a powerful lecture on “Myths, Medicine & Media: A Doctor’s Ethical Role in the Age of Misinformation,” followed by the much-awaited Grand Alumni Homecoming and Fellowship Night.

Still, for many, it was that Saturday morning at Eversley that captured the true essence of what it means to be part of the GCM family—where every reunion becomes a reason to serve.

#GullasGivesBack #MedicalMission2025 #GullasAlumni #TatakGullas #ServiceBeyondReunion #LifeAtGCM

Gov. Celestino Gallares Memorial Medical Center (GCGMMC)

Our current base hospital, Gallares is a DOH-retained regional training and teaching hospital located in Tagbilaran City, Bohol. With its extensive service areas in pediatrics, internal medicine, surgery, and OB-GYN, Gallares gives GCM students access to hands-on, supervised clinical training in a high-volume, multi-specialty setting. It also offers a dynamic learning environment in both inpatient and outpatient care, fostering the development of confident and compassionate future physicians.

Vicente Sotto Memorial Medical Center (VSMMC)

A leading tertiary government hospital in Cebu City, Sotto is one of the busiest medical centers in the Visayas. Known for its advanced medical services and subspecialty departments, it exposes students to a broad spectrum of cases—from trauma to cancer care—while nurturing skills in evidence-based practice.

The Hospital at Maayo

This modern, patient-first facility in Mandaue City is among the most advanced in Cebu. With its hotel-like interiors and cutting-edge diagnostic tools, Maayo gives students a taste of private healthcare at its finest, especially in wellness-oriented and technology-driven patient care.

ACE Medical Center – Bohol

A newly developed private hospital in Tagbilaran, ACE Bohol provides students a structured clinical rotation program in a multidisciplinary setting. Its commitment to innovation and safety makes it an ideal training site for tomorrow’s health professionals.

Ramiro Community Hospital

Also based in Tagbilaran City, Ramiro Hospital is a long-standing private institution known for its family-centered approach. Students rotating here learn the value of continuity of care and community medicine, building strong foundations in internal medicine and pediatrics.

Cebu City Medical Center (CCMC)

As a public city hospital, CCMC offers a close-up view of grassroots healthcare. With its fast-paced emergency department and active outpatient clinics, it prepares students for the realities of working in a resource-limited yet high-impact clinical environment.

Eversley Childs Sanitarium and General Hospital

Originally a specialty hospital for leprosy, Eversley has evolved into a general hospital with emphasis on infectious diseases and public health. It’s a crucial training ground for students pursuing community medicine and rehabilitative care.

Cebu Maternity Hospital

This specialty institution focuses on obstetrics and gynecology, offering GCM students an in-depth clinical experience in prenatal care, labor and delivery, and neonatal management under expert supervision.

Mendero Medical Center

Located in Consolacion, Cebu, Mendero is a fast-developing private hospital that blends modern technology with compassionate healthcare. Students benefit from structured clinical rotations in a range of departments from internal medicine to surgery.

St. Anthony Mother and Child Hospital

A DOH-run specialty hospital in Cebu City, St. Anthony focuses on maternal, neonatal, and pediatric care. It complements our students’ OB-GYN and pediatrics rotations, deepening their understanding of family-centered and child-friendly healthcare.

Coming Soon: Our Very Own Vicente Gullas Memorial Hospital

While our students currently train across these reputable partner institutions, renovation is underway at our very own on-campus hospital—Vicente Gullas Memorial Hospital. Once completed, it will serve as a modern hub for integrated learning, primary care, and community outreach—solidifying our commitment to producing globally competent doctors right here at home.

A Comprehensive Clinical Education
From regional government hospitals to cutting-edge private facilities, our wide network ensures that GCM students graduate with diverse, well-rounded, and deeply human experiences. These affiliations reflect our core belief: that the best way to learn medicine is to live it—side by side with seasoned professionals and in service to real communities.

And it starts with sports.

Introducing the GCM Racket Club

To kick off this initiative, GCM proudly launched the GCM Racket Club, a student-led group designed to foster camaraderie, wellness, and work-life balance through badminton and other racket sports. The club’s first match took place at MTDY Badminton Court and was met with great energy and participation.

Students were not just there to compete—they came to unwind, to connect, and to remind themselves that rest and recreation are just as essential to medical training as books and exams.

Coming Next: Yoga for Wellness

Recognizing the pressures that come with studying medicine, GCM will soon introduce guided yoga sessions on campus. These weekly activities aim to improve not only physical flexibility but also mental clarity and emotional resilience—crucial attributes for any future healthcare professional.

And Then, the Arts

To round out this wellness initiative, GCM is also preparing to roll out programs focused on art, music, and creative expression. These activities will offer students another outlet to explore their passions and express their individuality, fostering a culture where medical students are seen, heard, and supported beyond the white coat.

A New Era for GCM Student Life

This renewed focus on holistic development is part of GCM’s larger mission to produce not just competent doctors—but compassionate, balanced, and well-rounded individuals. By cultivating a culture of wellness and engagement, GCM is taking an active role in bridging the gap between academic rigor and student wellbeing.

As the academic year begins, students can look forward to a campus that not only challenges their minds—but also nurtures their bodies and spirits.

Because at GCM, we believe that to take care of others, we must first take care of ourselves.

Stay tuned for schedules, sign-ups, and more activities to be announced soon.
#LifeAtGCM #GCMRacketClub #HolisticMedicine #CampusWellness #FutureDoctors #BalanceInMedicine #WhyGCM #GullasCollegeOfMedicine