Three outstanding scholars have joined the a collaboration between DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) and  St. Luke’s Medical Center College of Medicine – William H. Quasha Memorial (SLMCCM-WHQM). This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to strengthening research capacity and advancing education in the rapidly advancing field of molecular medicine in the Philippines.

A highly competitive pool of applicants expressed interest in the program, but only a select few successfully passed the screening process.The newly admitted scholars are:

• Mr. Amiel Gabriel C. Carreon, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Biology with a specialization in Microbiology from Ateneo de Manila, and co-author of Screening of Cultivation Factors for the Growth Optimization of Escherichia coli Rosetta (DE3) pET-19b-MMLV-RT (2024–2025; Thesis). His research interests include Environmental Microbiology, Antimicrobial Resistance, Cancer Genetics and Cell Biology, Human Microbiome studies, Recombinant Protein Production, Infectious Diseases, and Microbial Pathogenesis. 
• Mr. Alain Kristian T. Catis, a graduate of BS Biology, Major in Medical Biology from Western Mindanao State University, and leader of the research Sardinella lemuru (Tamban) Epidermal Mucin Extract as an Antimicrobial Agent (2024–2025). His research focuses on drug discovery and the development of affordable medical products using local Philippine resources, such as marine organisms, plants, and microorganisms. He aims to explore bioactive compounds with antimicrobial and therapeutic potential to address antibiotic resistance, reduce healthcare costs, and improve access to treatment for Filipino communities. 
• Ms. Amelie Sasha Pulido, a graduate of Bachelor of Science in Biology, Major in Medical Biology from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, and lead author of In Silico Evaluation Using Molecular Docking of Select Flavonoids and Phenols of the Semi-Purified Extract of Broussonetia papyrifera (Paper Mulberry) Fruits and Leaves Against Breast Cancer Cell Receptors. Her research interests include infectious diseases (bacterial and viral), clinical epidemiology, molecular diagnostics, natural drug discovery, and she is eager to expand her knowledge in immunology and its applications.

Over the two-year program, the scholars will enhance their skills for the application of molecular medicine in clinical settings and develop into adept laboratory researchers capable of pioneering innovative health research, providing a strong foundation for future advancements in medical science. The program, based at St. Luke’s, provides specialized training in its state-of-the-art research laboratories, with a strong emphasis on translating molecular medicine research into practical clinical applications.

As PCHRD scholars, the students receive comprehensive support, including full tuition coverage, monthly stipends, learning materials and/or connectivity allowance, transportation allowance, group personal accident insurance, and thesis grants. These privileges, along with their Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), DOST-PCHRD policies, and grant liquidation procedures, were discussed during the online orientation, held on November 20, 2025.

Equipped with advanced knowledge and research expertise, these scholars are expected to play a vital role in advancing health research in the Philippines, contributing to scientific innovation, addressing pressing health challenges, and driving progress in medical science nationwide.