Clerks and Interns Assembly 1 Showcases Innovative Breast Surgery Case Through Student-Led Presentation
Events | August 5, 2026
The St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine William H. Quasha Memorial (SLMCCM-WHQM) successfully held its Clerks and Interns Assembly 1 on August 5, 2026, featuring an engaging case presentation that highlighted innovation in breast cancer surgery and the importance of multidisciplinary patient care.
The highlight of the morning was the case presentation, “Saving the Nipple, Keeping It Simple: A Case of Endoscopic Nipple-Sparing Mastectomy with Immediate Reconstruction,” presented by Medical Clerk Julianna Gabrielle C. Sy and Medical Intern Kian Carlo D. Bumanlag.
The presentation examined a patient case involving an endoscopic nipple-sparing mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction—an evolving surgical approach that combines oncologic safety with improved cosmetic outcomes. Through a comprehensive discussion of the patient’s clinical course, surgical decision-making, and postoperative considerations, the presenters demonstrated the value of minimally invasive techniques and patient-centered treatment planning in modern breast surgery.
Following the presentation, participants actively engaged in an open forum, exchanging questions and insights with the presenters and faculty members. Serving as reactor, Genevieve Padilla-Evangelista, MD, Overall Coordinator of the Department of Surgery, provided expert commentary on the case, highlighting key clinical takeaways and emphasizing the role of evidence-based decision-making, multidisciplinary collaboration, and continuous learning in surgical practice.
The program also recognized the efforts of the presenters through the awarding of certificates, followed by announcements before transitioning to the Joint Milestone Ceremony for clerks and interns.
Hosted by Karen Zaguirre-dela Tonga, MD, faculty member of the Department of Surgery, the assembly reinforced the College’s commitment to experiential learning by providing clerks and interns with opportunities to present real-world clinical cases, engage in scholarly discussion, and learn directly from experienced mentors.
Through meaningful case-based learning and constructive faculty engagement, Clerks and Interns Assembly 1 strengthened students’ clinical reasoning skills while fostering the academic excellence and collaborative spirit that define the St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine.
