One of our retirees this year needs no introduction. For at one time or another, she may have been your teacher, your mentor, thesis adviser or just a friend. Dr. Lago has been in the service of the university for a good number of years now. She graduated from UP in 1965 and obtained a certificate in Orthodontics from the Osaka University in 1972. On December 11, 1967 she began her teaching career as an Instructor at the College of Dentistry. She is now a full professor. Married to Engr. Vicente, M. Lago, Jr., the Lagos are blessed with two children namely: Leinard, now a physical therapist practicing in New York and Vivienne, a dentist practicing in Southern California, UPCD batch 2000.
by Dr. Sandy Hernandez
Dr. Lago’s career is highlighted by her various high positions in the university. In 1977-1989 she was Faculty-in-charge of the Orthodontic Section at the College of Dentistry. She concurrently held the position of Department Chair of the Basic Sciences (1981-1984) and College Secretary (1981-1989). Along with Dr. Luz C. Macapanpan, she was the main proponent to develop a graduate program in Orthodontics. It was in 1989 when this program finally began and she sat as its first Chair. In 1995-1997 she held the position of University Registrar and in 1997-2000 she was Dean of the College of Dentistry.
She is credited with authoring a book, written in Filipino, entitled, "Morfologia at Pisyologia ng Ngipin" published in 1998 by the UP Sentro ng Wikang Pilipino.
She is active in the profession through her membership in various organizations such as: fellow (since 1990) and vice president (from 2004-to the present) of the International College of Dentists RP Section, Philippine Dental Association as a member of the speakers’ bureau, chaired the 97th and 98th annual convention and scientific meeting in 2005 and 2006 and chaired the free communications from 2000-2004, and 2006.
Dr. Lago was awarded the UPCD Alumni Association’s Most Outstanding Alumnus Award in 2004; UP Manila Alumni Association, Inc.’s Professional Award in Dentistry in 1984, International College of Dentists Achievement Award in 1997, UPCD Outstanding Service Award in 2000, UP Manila Service Award for 30 years of service in 1999 and for 35 years of service in 2003.
Dr. Lago remains down to earth, approachable and friendly. With her retirement drawing near, we will miss her.
