List of Medical Schools in the Philippines

The University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery (UST-FMS) holds the distinction of being the first medical school in the Philippines, having been established in 1871. It is deeply rooted in the history of medical education in the country and continues to be a cornerstone of Philippine healthcare education today. The university has consistently been recognized as one of the top-performing medical schools in the country, with its graduates excelling in the Physician Licensure Examinations year after year. The faculty offers a rigorous medical curriculum that emphasizes both academic excellence and hands-on clinical experience. UST is known for producing highly skilled and compassionate physicians who make significant contributions to healthcare, both within the Philippines and abroad.

One of the key strengths of the University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery is its long-standing commitment to medical research. The Santo Tomas Journal of Medicine, which is published by the faculty, is a well-regarded academic publication that contributes to the medical community's body of knowledge. The journal is accredited by the Institute for Scientific Information (ISI) and is listed in the Index Medicus, one of the most prestigious bibliographic databases for medical research. This recognition underscores the university’s dedication to advancing medical science, fostering innovation, and promoting evidence-based practices in medicine. In addition to research, UST’s medical school offers specialized programs that focus on a broad range of medical disciplines, including surgery, internal medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and public health.

Another prestigious institution in the Philippines is the University of the Philippines Manila (UP Manila), which is a recognized Center of Excellence in medical education by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED). UP Manila’s College of Medicine holds the title of the oldest medical school in the country, and it has been instrumental in shaping the landscape of medical education in the Philippines. The university’s emphasis on high-quality education, research, and community service makes it one of the leading medical institutions not only in the Philippines but in Southeast Asia as well.

UP Manila's College of Medicine is widely regarded for its academic rigor and excellence in clinical training. It is also the first medical school in the country to be accredited by the Philippine Accrediting Association of Schools, Colleges, and Universities (PAASCU), which is a testament to its high standards of education and academic integrity. The college's curriculum is designed to produce well-rounded physicians who are equipped to address the health needs of the Filipino population, particularly in underserved and rural communities. The institution’s strong focus on public health and community medicine sets it apart from other medical schools, as it aims to train doctors who are not only skilled in clinical practice but also aware of the socio-economic and public health challenges that affect the country.

UP Manila's College of Medicine has produced some of the most influential medical professionals in the country, many of whom have contributed significantly to the field of healthcare policy, research, and clinical practice. The university is committed to advancing medical knowledge and improving healthcare delivery through its research programs, which cover a wide range of areas such as infectious diseases, maternal and child health, health systems research, and biomedical sciences. Moreover, UP Manila fosters collaboration with both local and international institutions to promote global health initiatives and share knowledge on best practices in healthcare.

The University of Santo Tomas and the University of the Philippines Manila represent two of the most prestigious and influential medical schools in the Philippines, each contributing to the development of the country’s healthcare system through their commitment to education, research, and community service. Both institutions provide a comprehensive medical education that emphasizes not only the technical skills required to be a competent physician but also the importance of social responsibility, ethics, and leadership in the medical profession. As the Philippines continues to face challenges in healthcare access and quality, these medical schools play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the country's healthcare system and addressing the needs of the Filipino people.

List of medical schools in the Philippines:
  • Angeles University Foundation
  • Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health
  • Ateneo de Zamboanga University
  • Baguio Central University
  • Bicol Christian College of Medicine
  • Cagayan State University
  • Cebu Doctors' University
  • Cebu Institute of Medicine
  • Central Philippine University
  • Centro Escolar University
  • College of Medicine - Xavier University - Ateneo de Cagayan
  • College of Medicine, University of Perpetual Help System
  • Davao Medical School Foundation
  • De La Salle Health Sciences Institute
  • Divine Word University of Tacloban
  • Dr. Francisco Q. Duque Medical Foundation
  • Dr. Jose P. Rizal College of Medicine
  • Emilio Aguinaldo College, College of Medicine
  • Far Eastern University
  • Gullas College of Medicine
  • Iloilo Doctors' College of Medicine
  • Manila Central University-Filemon D. Tanchoco Foundation
  • Matias H. Aznar Memorial College of Medicine of Southwestern University
  • Mindanao State University
  • Our Lady of Fatima University, Fatima College of Medicine
  • Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila, College of Medicine
  • Philippine Muslim-Christian College
  • Remedios T. Romualdez Foundation
  • San Beda College, College of Medicine
  • Silliman University
  • Saint Louis University, Baguio City International College of Medicine
  • St. Luke's College of Medicine, William H. Quasha Memorial (SLCM-WHQM)
  • Universidad de Sta. Isabel (USI)
  • University of the East Ramon Magsaysay Memorial Medical Center
  • University of Northern Philippines
  • University of Perpetual Help Rizal
  • University of the Philippines College of Medicine
  • University of Saint La Salle
  • University of Santo Tomas Faculty of Medicine and Surgery
  • University of the City of Manila
  • Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation
  • West Visayas State University

Comments

Author

Kelvin Wong Loke Yuen is a seasoned educator and writer, distinguished by his certifications, including the Certified Microsoft Innovative Educator designation. His academic credentials are equally impressive, with an MBA and Postgraduate Diploma from Heriot-Watt University, a leading institution in the UK, and a BCom degree from Adelaide, a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight. Follow: LinkedIn

Popular Articles

Browse by Category