The Philippine College of Physicians (PCP) was established 70 years ago (in 1953). The 54^th PCP Annual Congress was held in Manila on 5 – 8 May 2024. The meeting began with the convocation; an event with plenty of pomp and ceremony and attended by more than 2500. Highly performing fellows and trainees were recognized by a number of awards. All diplomates were presented individually; their brightly coloured gowns and bonnets from the various universities made it a quite a spectacle. The oration provided sage advice to trainees and ended with a emotional song, performed by a number of singers from the Philippines, on the impact of Covid on health professionals.

The scientific programme provided variety with cohesion with a focus on the multiple dimensions of physician activity. The theme of the meeting was “The Impowered Internist” with multiple session titles being a play on the initials IM. The meeting had more than 10,000 registrants and one was struck by the relative youth of the attendees. The configuration of the main auditorium and 9 large screens meant that all of the audience had an excellent view of the presentations. Most sessions were unopposed plenaries but there were Grand Round and Young Investigator sessions. The vast majority of presenters were from the Philippines and the standard of presentations was very high. The Business meeting of PCP was held immediately before the Closing Ceremony. Despite this timing, over 5000 attended. The agenda highlighted the breadth of activity in which the College is involved. The organization of the meeting was excellent and ably supported by PCP staff.

Dr Rontgene Solante, President of PCP, chairing the Annual Business Meeting.
To his left is Dr Imelda Mateo, the incoming President.