SU explores health optimization and osteopathy programs in meeting with Clinical Salutare, Inc.

Silliman University (SU) leaders met with representatives from Clinica Salutare Inc. on November 17, 2025, to discuss two emerging health innovations that could expand the university’s academic and clinical offerings.

The presentation was held at the SU Boardroom Annex with SU President Dr. Betty Cernol McCann, Medical School Dean Dr. Jennifer Barimbao, College of Nursing Dean Dr. Theorose June Q. Bustillo, Institute of Rehabilitative Sciences Director Dr. Paolo Manuel G. Jimenez, and Strategic Partnership and Enterprise Development (SPED) OIC Glynnis Jean C. Casiño in attendance.

Dra. Paulita V. Baclig, president and medical director of Clinica Salutare Inc., introduced Health Optimization Medicine (HOMe) as a new clinical framework that shifts focus from disease treatment to proactive health maintenance and metabolic balance.

Baclig underscored its potential as a self-care approach for future doctors, nurses, and physical therapists, noting that the framework could equip students to become certified health coaches and to manage both illness and health optimization.

Integrating seven multi-omics sciences—such as metabolomics, mitochondrial bioenergetics, gut microbiome health, and epigenetics—HOMe aims to enhance an individual’s healthspan by detecting and correcting subtle physiologic imbalances before they progress into disease.

The second proposal presented the possibility of a Doctor of Osteopathy postgraduate program, developed in partnership with the Madrid School of Osteopathy.

Baclig highlighted osteopathy’s evidence-supported benefits, including lower healthcare costs, reduced dependence on invasive procedures, and a low risk of complications when practiced by trained professionals.

With osteopathy recognized by the Philippine Institute for Traditional and Alternative Healthcare, the program would align with European training standards and offer advanced opportunities for Filipino physical therapists and other health professionals.

Damarisa Ceriales, RN, joined Baclig at the exploration meeting.