PASAY CITY, Metro Manila- It’s every student’s dream to graduate college. But for some such as the scholars of the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD), undergraduate degree is not enough, they should finish their MD-PhD as well!

Four scholars, first batch of the MD-PhD Molecular Medicine Program, participated the hooding ceremony for their doctoral degree during the 109^th Commencement Exercises of the University of the Philippines (UP) Manila on 22 June 2018 at the Philippine International Convention Center.

Among the scholars who successfully surpassed the eight-year coursework of the program are Dr. Ruby Anne King, Dr. Monica Fresthel Climacosa, Dr. Bobbie Marie Santos, and Dr. Jonnel Poblete.

The MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine Program is a joint initiative of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through PCHRD, and UP Manila, through the College of Medicine, to train aspiring physician-scientists for careers dedicated to the advancement of health through biomedical research.

Being the first and only program in the country that offers dual MD-PhD course, the MD-PhD Molecular Medicine Program prepares scholars to assume key leadership roles within the academic community and mentor physician-scientists in training.

PCHRD Executive Director Jaime Montoya also awarded the “Most Outstanding MD-PhD Dissertation Award” to Dr. Monica Fresthel Climacosa, during the UP College of Medicine Graduation.

Congratulations to the proud parents!