Eight new scholars formally join the MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine program through a memorandum of agreement signing ceremony last 23 August 2022 held at the UP Manila Dormitory (and streamed via Zoom). The group is the 13th batch of scholars under the program since its inception in 2010.  

The MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine scholarship is an eight-year program implemented by the Department of Science and Technology- Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) in partnership with the University of the Philippines College of Medicine (UPCM). It was designed to build a local pool of physician-scientists with expertise in biomedical research to advance healthcare in the country.

On its 12th year of implementation, the program welcomed the following scholars:

1.   Jirov A. Advincula (University of the Philippines Manila)
2.   Mary Ann F. Cabrera (University of the Philippines Manila)
3.   Sean Philippe L. Chua (University of the Philippines Diliman)
4.   Claire Abigail A. Collantes (University of the Philippines Manila)
5.   Von Novi O. De Leon (University of Santo Tomas)
6.   Khevin Jade B. Gumaru (University of the Philippines Manila)
7.   Harley M. Rodriguez (University of Eastern Philippines, Catarman Northern Samar)
8.   Fred Lawrence D. Samante (St. Scholastica’s College, Tacloban, Leyte)

The scholarship covers tuition and other school fees, book allowance, transportation allowance, monthly stipend, insurance coverage, and thesis grants. They may also avail of the Student Research Support Fund for the conduct and dissemination of research outputs.  Other activities that may be supported upon approval of the DOST-PCHRD and UPM are presentations in international research conferences/fora, journal publications, and participation in the DOST-PCHRD’s Research Enrichment Program and DOST Summer Immersion Program.

DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime Montoya shared his insights on how the MD-PhD program can benefit Filipinos. “I believe that this program is an initiative that we can leverage to strengthen our health systems and make us better prepared for future health challenges,” said Dr. Montoya. He also cited the MD-PhD Colloquium held in May 2022 as a proof of the program’s contributions in generating significant research-based health solutions for Filipinos. In the activity, ongoing scholars presented their research studies conducted under the program.

Similarly, DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr. also looks forward to positive outcomes for the program, “With major health R&D initiatives such as the establishment of the Virology and Vaccine of the Philippines on the way, I am certain of a fruitful journey ahead of you,” he said.

To date, the program has produced 26 graduates, with 71 ongoing scholars.