The Philippine Pediatric Dental Society, Inc. (PPDSI) had the privilege to host a Regional Meeting of the International Association of Pediatric Dentistry (IAPD) in Manila for the first time. Coinciding with PPDSI’s 24th Annual Convention, it was held last February 27 & 28, 2017 at the Blue Leaf Filipinas, Aseana City in Parañaque City. As PPDSI is a small specialty group in Manila with only about 120 active members, the IAPD Regional in Manila was well-attended by about 200 delegates, with foreign delegates attending from nearby countries, but as far as United Kingdom. The charm of Manila must have enticed these foreign delegates to attend this regional meeting, as our country is known as a food haven and white sand beaches, to name a few.

We were fortunate to have four reputable and world-renowned speakers visit our country and deliver incredible lectures. They all travelled far for this congress. One was from Israel and the other three were from Australia. And so to maximize their efforts and time, they all willingly shared their expertise and knowledge in two topics each.

Held at Blue Leaf Filipinas in Aseana City, Parañaque City, it was chosen for its breezy and spacious area, apt for an international convention. Two halls were utilized, with one hall dedicated as a seminar hall and the other for trade exhibits, poster presentations, registration and food service. To officially open the congress, the PPDSI President Dr. Fina Lopez briefly welcomed all the local and international delegates while the IAPD President, Dr. Anthony Tsai also welcomed the new members of the IAPD about the association and its upcoming conference and meetings.