The University of the Philippines (UP) is set to expand medical education in Mindanao with the launch of its five-year Doctor of Medicine program at UP Mindanao—the first of its kind in the region. The initiative aims to help address the shortage of doctors in underserved communities.
The university recently opened its School of Medicine (SoMed), with applications for its pioneer batch accepted until May 31. The program was approved by the UP Board of Regents during its April 30 meeting.
Addressing the Doctor Gap
UP President Angelo Jimenez said the program seeks to increase the number of physicians serving Mindanao.
Data from the Department of Health shows that as of end-2025, only 56,794 doctors serve over 114 million Filipinos—about five doctors per 10,000 people. This is far below the World Health Organization benchmark of 10 per 10,000.
While the National Capital Region has 11 doctors per 10,000 residents, several Mindanao regions lag behind, including Zamboanga Peninsula (3.3), Northern Mindanao (3.5), Davao Region (3.1), Soccsksargen (2.3), Caraga (2.2), and the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (0.4).
Community-Focused Medical Education
The program was developed in partnership with the UP Manila School of Health Sciences, adopting its organ system-integrated and community-oriented curriculum.
UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee emphasized the need to extend UP’s expertise beyond Metro Manila and into underserved regions. Graduates are expected to serve both urban and geographically isolated communities, helping build a more equitable healthcare system.
Admissions and Service Requirement
Only 35 students will be admitted for the first batch, with classes starting Aug. 17 for Academic Year 2026–2027. No entrance exam will be required.
Applicants must sign a return service agreement requiring three years of service in Mindanao after graduation. Scholarships will be offered to low-income and deserving students, prioritizing those from disadvantaged areas, Indigenous Peoples, and Muslim communities.
