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The Dentist is in the House!

Miss Universe Philippines 2020 candidate Maria Regina Malana of Isabela is a Doctor of Dental Medicine. And as a licensed professional in the field, oral health is her prime advocacy for the competition and perhaps, for a lifetime.

Nicknamed ‘Jin’, she took up her Pre-Dentistry and Dentistry Proper at the University of the East Manila and passed the licensure examinations back in 2018. What made her deeply passionate about it is her mother who is a practicing Dentist as well.

On top of generating income from the same, she was introduced to dental missions as early as 2010 when she would be her mom’s assistant in doing charity dental procedures. Hence, even before becoming one herself, she already experienced the fulfillment that comes after alleviating someone’s pain and putting back their smiles.

Before the quarantine period started and with the help of some colleagues, and having MUPh as a platform, she went to Naguilian, Isabela to have her own dental mission and to teach students proper oral hygiene. This was at the San Roque Elementary School at sa Centro Day Care Center.

During the ECQ period, Jin and her family donated to a few organizations raising funds for those who were affected by the crisis. One that is close to her heart is the Philippine Dental Association’s fundraising for providing Personal Protective Equipments to hospitals all over the country. Aside from this, they also prepare meals and snacks for Barangay officials who tirelessly keep peace and order in their Barangay.

For some, Jin’s efforts may sound light. But do keep in mind that oral health is a key indicator of overall health, well-being and quality of life. And she wants to use the national pageant platform to raise more awareness on this sadly-neglected part of daily living.