𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 | TAU Makes History as Host of the 22nd National Congress of Veterinary Medicine Students

𝐌𝐈𝐋𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐍𝐄𝐒 | TAU Makes History as Host of the 22nd National Congress of Veterinary Medicine Students

Tarlac Agricultural University (TAU) proudly marks a historic milestone as it officially hosts the 22nd National Congress of Veterinary Medicine Students (NCVMS) for the first time, the University takes on the role of host for this prestigious national gathering of future veterinarians from across the country.

Adding pride to this landmark event is the leadership behind its successful execution. The Director of the 22nd NCVMS, the Honorable Justin Jay V. Bulatao, is himself a student of TAU from the College of Veterinary Medicine, exemplifying student leadership and excellence. Under his direction, and through the collective dedication of the organizing committee, volunteers, and partners, the host institution exerted its full effort and commitment to ensure a meaningful, well-organized, and memorable congress for all participants.

The first day of the 22nd NCVMS opened with a series of exciting and insightful discussions delivered by respected and high-caliber lecturers who are well-known in the field of veterinary medicine. The day set an inspiring tone for learning, reflection, and professional growth.

The first speaker, Dr. Paul A. Cardenio, captivated the audience with his talk titled “Guide to Veterinary Specialization and Career Focus.” Dr. Cardenio, a 3rd placer in the 2014 Veterinarian Licensure Examination, graduate of Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Central Luzon State University and is currently a PhD student at the University of the Philippines–Los Baños. A practitioner specializing in animal surgery and cardiology with a focus on small animals, Dr. Cardenio delivered an engaging and thought-provoking lecture. He emphasized that veterinary students and future doctors of their field must discover their niche, a realization that will guide them in choosing whether to pursue the path of a specialist or a generalist. His discussion was insightful yet fun, blending personal experiences with practical advice, encouraging students to reflect deeply on their career goals and the many paths available in veterinary medicine.

Capping off the lecture series for Day 1 was the award-winning TV host and Resident Veterinary Doctor of GMA News and Current Affairs, Dr. Ferdinand “Ferds” Recio, best known for the iconic program “Born to Be Wild.” His lecture, “Lessons You Don’t Learn in Vet School,” resonated strongly with the delegates. Dr. Recio candidly shared stories from his student years at UP–Los Baños, highlighting his hard work, struggles, and the realization that real learning often happens beyond the four walls of the classroom. Drawing from his extensive experiences as a wildlife veterinarian and media practitioner, he underscored essential virtues every veterinary student must develop; humility, resilience, and effective communication. His discussion centered on the realities of being a veterinary doctor, offering an honest, inspiring, and grounded perspective on the profession.

Beyond the lecture halls, the host institution also prepared an Exotic Animal Booth, which became a highlight of the day. Participants enthusiastically toured the different booths, gaining valuable insights from knowledgeable presenters while enjoying close encounters with fascinating animal species, an experience that enriched their learning beyond theory.

With a strong opening day marked by academic excellence, inspiring stories, and interactive learning experiences, the 22nd NCVMS at Tarlac Agricultural University sets a high standard for the days ahead, truly a celebration of learning, leadership, and the future of veterinary medicine.

TAUHostsNCVMS #22ndNCVMS #TAUVetMed #FutureVeterinarians#SDG4 #QualityEducation

#SDG3 #OneHealth#SDG15 #AnimalWelfare#SDG17 #PartnershipsForTheGoals

Text | Johndel G. Dela Cruz [Information Unit]
Photos | June Adel S. Guerrero [Information Unit]

Graphics | Omar U. Barauntong [Information Unit]