President Marcos has signed new laws establishing college of medicine programs in five universities in the country.
Malacañang announced on Thursday, Dec. 28, that Marcos signed five measures into law —Republic Act Nos. 11970, 11971, 11972, 11973, and 11974 on Dec. 20.
Under the RA 11970 and RA 11971, the Benguet State University-College of Medicine in La Trinidad, Benguet, and Southern Luzon State University-College of Medicine in Lucban, Quezon would be established.
Under RA No. 11972, the University of Eastern Philippines-College of Medicine in Catarman, Northern Samar will also be put up, and RA No. 11974 would establish the Visayas State University-College of Medicine in Baybay, Leyte.
The President said under the newly-created laws, the universities can now proceed with offering a Doctor of Medicine Program, including an Integrated Liberal Arts and Medicine Program to develop a corps of professional physicians and help strengthen the country’s healthcare system.
According to Marcos, the colleges are also mandated to undertake research and extension services and provide progressive leadership in these areas.
Meanwhile, the Chief Executive also signed into law RA No. 11973, which established Bicol University-College of Veterinary Medicine in Ligao City, Albay to produce a corps of professional veterinary physicians who are adept in the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and control of animal diseases, including terrestrial and aquatic animals.