It is with a feeling of pride and a deep sense of belonging that we identify ourselves with the recognized father of the International College of Dentist…. Dr. Louis Ottofy. Unknown to many and possibly a surprise as well, is the fact that he left a legacy in Philippine Dentistry, particularly in the fields of licensure, dental public health, and dental education. The relevance of  his contributions to the growth and development of the profession in our country deserves “a place in the sun”. No history of the Philippine Dentistry will be complete without mention of this great man. The writer deems it appropriate, therefore, to cite aspects of  Dr. Ottofy’s life during his stay in the Philippines, as a token of the nation’s gratitude and esteem. A facet of the life of this worthy man of science will serve as fitting introduction to the history of an equally worthy dental organization in this part of the world…… The International College of Dentists, Philippine Section!

The International College of Dentists is an eminent honorary organization of the World’s outstanding dentists, who by their action have demonstrated an abiding interest and concern for their profession. Its mission in general is to foster international understanding and fellowship through the promotion and advancement of the science and art of dentistry, in the interest of improved oral and general health for all people.

It was in November 1920; Dr. Ottofy passed Japan on his way back to USA after 23 years stay in the Philippines. At a farewell party given to honor Dr. Louis Ottofy in Tokyo, Japan that he broached the idea of establishing the International College of Dentists (ICD) with Dr. Tsurukichi Okumura. His impassioned speech exhorted his colleagues to “keep learning what progress our profession is making in all parts of the world.” The ICD, Philippines Section Inc. accepted this challenge and committed to carry on the vision and mission exhorted by Dr. Ottofy with the hope to learn, with the hope to give too, its share to the dentists, the patients, the country and the profession. Dr. Eladio R. Aldecoa was the first Filipino ICD Fellow recorded in the 1928 roster of its members, verified by the letter from the Secretary General, Franklin M. Kenward dated 29 April, 1976. He was a former Associate Professor and Head of the Department of Prosthetic Dentistry, University of the Philippines, School of Dentistry. In later years, Dr. Aldecoa would found a dental school, the College of Oral and Dental Surgery.