The Tiger Sports Freehub, a clinical internship virtual clinic, was launched on August 25, 2021 to provide free rehabilitation and strength and conditioning services to all enrolled Thomasian student athletes.
The exercise programs are strengthened through interprofessional collaboration among physical therapists, sports science specialists, coaches, and medical doctors. Using online platforms, such as a private Facebook group and Zoom, athletes can join the group and schedule their initial screening appointment.
The online launch was attended by the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Prof. Cheryl R. Peralta, DrPH, College of Rehabilitation Sciences Dean Assoc. Prof. Anne Marie Aseron, UST Health Service Director Dr. Sheryl M. Dionisio, UST-IPEA Athletic Moderator Asst. Prof. Rodrigo A. Sambuang, Jr., Physical Therapy Department Chair Asst. Prof. Donald G. Manlapaz, Ph.D., Sports Science Department Chair Asst. Prof. Reil Vinard S. Espino, Chief Physical Therapist Ken Erbvin R. Sosa, Sports Science Supervisors Gino V. Zapanta and Kris Anthony T. Agarao, faculty members, coaches, and interns from the physical therapy and sports science programs.
Aruga Occupational Therapy Clinic
The Department of Occupational Therapy, under the University of Santo Tomas College of Rehabilitation Sciences, formally launched its first virtual clinic on July 29, 2021. The event was held online through video conferencing among organizers and main guests, and streamed live for public viewing.
Formally known as the Aruga UST OT Clinic, this virtual therapy and wellness center provides an avenue for occupational therapy interns to receive quality training and an opportunity for the department to serve the UST community and its partners through the provision of free occupational therapy services.
The online launch was attended by University officials, faculty members, interns, and guests from partner organizations and institutions.
College of Rehabilitation Sciences Dean Assoc. Prof. Anne Marie Aseron delivered the welcome remarks. This was followed by a presentation about the Aruga UST OT Clinic, showcasing the history, background, goals and programs of the clinic.
To signify the formal opening of the clinic, the Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs Peralta, with Dean Aseron, the clinic administrators Charles Bermejo, Zha Nella Canja, Gillian Ollet, Ma. Carol Mae Protacio, Allan James Tan, and the OT Department Chair Asst. Prof. Kathlene Anne Hernandez held a virtual ribbon cutting ceremony.
From the planning stage beginning in December 2020, Aruga opened its doors to receive its first clients on July 1, 2021. Partners in this initiative include the UST Human Resource Department, Parent Advocates for Visually Impaired Children (PAVIC), Balay Tulul-anan, the UST SIMBAHAYAN Community Development Office, the UST Health Service, and the UST Psychotrauma Clinic.
Aruga moves forward with its mission to impart quality education and training to occupational therapy interns, to go beyond the provision of service in physical clinics and extend the reach of occupational therapy services to more people through telehealth, and to empower clients and their families to be able to overcome their difficulties and limitations.
