Warm greetings to everyone! Welcome to another golden opportunity for a collaborative learning experience.

This year’s convention is exciting not only for its rich array of topics on various dermatologic issues but also because we shall be learning from personal experiences coming from different angles and perspectives from both local and foreign speakers. All these gems of knowledge will be shared in the spirit of synergy and collaboration.

Going through the list of topics in our convention is like skimming through the pages of Fitzpatrick’s book. It is not only comprehensive. It also combines both theoretical knowledge and valuable first-hand clinical experiences, plus a bird’s eye-view of what artificial intelligence and modern technology have in store for us in the future.

As we immerse into our 2025 Annual Convention, let us approach this interactive experience with open minds, ready to learn and to share knowledge about the enigma of the skin. Truly, the skin is one special organ of the body that serves not just as a protective mantle to the various organ systems underneath it but also as a reflective mirror of our general well-being. Thus, a citizenry with healthy glowing skin makes up for a microcosmic indicator of a healthy nation.

Let us once again be excited to learn. As Confucius would say, “Real knowledge is knowing the extent of your ignorance.” Ergo, let us be ready to learn and be enlightened so we can be better dermatologists at par with our peers anytime, anywhere.

At this point, let me congratulate the organizing committee, along with our partners—the Asian Society of Pediatric Dermatology and the Pediatric Dermatology Society of the Philippines—for an excellent preparation and lineup of topics!

Again, to all of us learners, Mabuhay!