The Association of Philippine Orthodontists (APO) successfully held the 15th Biennial National Orthodontic Congress (BNOC) on March 10–11, 2026, at the AC Hotel by Marriott Manila, Ortigas Center, Philippines.
Carrying the theme “Advancing Orthodontic Excellence,” the congress brought together internationally recognized experts to discuss contemporary concepts in biomechanics, aligner therapy, skeletal anchorage systems, digital orthodontics, artificial intelligence, and interdisciplinary approaches that continue to shape modern orthodontic practice.
The congress was officially opened by Dr. Maria Irene G. Yu, Congress General Chair and APO President-Elect for 2024–2026, together with Dr. Joanne R. Marañon, APO President for 2024–2026. The occasion also recognized Hon. Jocelyn Genevieve T. Tan, APO Past President-Elect and current Member of the Professional Regulation Commission Board of Dentistry, for her valuable contributions during the initial planning and preparation stages of the congress.
The scientific program commenced with a keynote address by Dr. Dennis C. Lim, Chairman of the Philippine Board of Orthodontics and APO Past President, highlighting the growth of orthodontics in the Philippines and ongoing efforts to strengthen specialty recognition, education, and professional development.
Throughout the two-day congress, participants attended lectures and discussions on innovative treatment mechanics, digital orthodontics, artificial intelligence, facial-driven orthodontics, mandibular asymmetry, open bite management, and skeletal anchorage biomechanics in complex cases. Interactive panel discussions and open forums provided opportunities for meaningful exchange of ideas, treatment philosophies, digital innovations, and clinical experiences among speakers and delegates.
A special highlight of the event was the limited-attendance hands-on workshop on Temporary Anchorage Device (TAD) placement, which provided participants with practical instruction on skeletal anchorage techniques and biomechanics in contemporary orthodontic treatment.
Held every two years, the Biennial National Orthodontic Congress remains one of APO’s flagship scientific events, serving as a venue for continuing education, professional exchange, and international collaboration among orthodontic practitioners.
By bringing together globally respected experts and clinicians, the 15th BNOC reinforced APO’s mission of promoting ethical, evidence-based, and patient-centered orthodontic care while continuously elevating the standards of orthodontic education and practice in the Philippines.
