DOST-PCHRD, UP Manila Welcome New Scholars for MD-PhD in Molecular Medicine Degree Program

September 01, 2026

Text by Jennifer F. Manongdo
Photos by College of Medicine

*The 17th batch of the MD-PhD scholars were formally welcomed by the College of Medicine on Aug. 18, 2026.*

A new batch of scholars was welcomed into the MD-PhD Molecular Medicine Program by the University of the Philippines Manila–College of Medicine (UPM-CM) following the signing of a scholarship agreement with the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (DOST-PCHRD) on Aug. 18, 2026, via Zoom.

The ceremony was led by College of Medicine Dean Charlotte M. Chiong. She was joined by Dr. Leah J. Buendia, DOST-PCHRD undersecretary for Research and Development and officer-in-charge of the Office of the Executive Director; UP Manila Chancellor Michael L. Tee; Dr. Jaime C. Montoya, former DOST-PCHRD executive director and professor of the UP College of Medicine; Dr. Leslie Michelle M. Dalmacio, coordinator of the MD-PhD (Molecular Medicine) Program and vice chancellor for Research and Extension; and Dr. Maria Llaine J. Callanta, associate professor of the Department of Biotechnology and Molecular Biology.

In the meeting, the university and DOST-PCHRD officials reaffirmed their support for the scholars and reminded them of their responsibilities to complete their degrees, contribute to the Philippine healthcare system, and uphold the highest standards of research integrity.

Under the agreement, scholars will receive financial assistance covering tuition and other school fees, monthly stipends, learning materials and connectivity, transportation, group accident insurance, and research-related grants.

The scholarship program aims to develop physician-scientists who are adept in clinical research and have a strong understanding of research and development (R&D), contributing to high-end technological advancements in health.

This year’s recipients are Carlos Anthony Henry E. Cortes, Darren Joy A. Cañizares, Czerina Q. Dimalanta, Sherwin Von L. Palaad, Sean Carlo Palomares, and Kris Harmony Mae C. Patacsil.

Dean Chiong reminded the scholars to pursue their educational journey with “curiosity, humility, and abiding commitment to the health of the Filipino people.” At the same time, DOST-PCHRD’s Dr. Buendia commended the 17th batch of scholars for their hard work and commitment to excellence.

“Through the next eight years, there will be long nights, turning points, and moments of doubt. This ceremony serves as a reminder that you are not alone in this endeavor,” she emphasized. “You have your upperclassmen to ask for advice, professors and mentors to guide you in your studies, and research institutions ready to support your work. The DOST-PCHRD is also committed to helping you throughout your journey.”

The agreement will enable UPM-CM to develop medical doctors with strong backgrounds in basic and applied research to address the country’s biomedical research and development needs.