The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) on Wednesday, Jan. 31 announced the expansion of its scholarship program for medical students at the University of the Philippines-College of Medicine (UPCM).
PRC Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Richard Gordon made the announcement while being recognized alongside the organization at the "Donor Appreciation Ceremony" held on Jan. 30 at UP Manila for being its largest full scholarship provider.
"I believe it is a privilege to be a part of this wonderful effort to thrive and educate principled doctors," Gordon said.
This year, the PRC will extend the program to include an additional 12 students of UPCM Doctor of Medicine-Master of Public Health (MD-MPH).
These scholarships cover all expenses throughout their medical studies, including tuition, miscellaneous and laboratory fees, student funds, book allowance, uniform, internet access, lodging, living allowance, transportation, as well as their board exam review and application fees.
Since August 2022, the organization said it has fully sponsored 12 UPCM students “economically disadvantaged and deserving” students.
"We are currently supporting UPCM's med students who came from different parts of the country, including those from Mindanao, where there is a disparity in healthcare access as compared to other regions,” he added.
Gordon hoped that through the organizations and the donors, the organization could add more scholars.
The chairman further expressed his gratitude to Dean Charlotte Chiong of UPCM, Dr. Michael Tee, UP Manila Chancellor; Dr. Carmencita Padilla, former UP Manila Chancellor, and all the other donors.