The Philippines has marked a significant step in its sector of medical education by giving its final nod to alter the Philippine Medical Act. This act will provide a clear avenue for foreign nationals, including those Indian students, to study medical education in the Philippines and also to practice medicine in the country, maybe in India or even around the world, satisfying the growing demand for affordable and globally accepted medical education.

The long-standing Medical Act of 1959 has now been replaced by a new law, which was approved by the House of Representatives. The updated law introduces major reforms, such as the establishment of the Professional Regulatory Board of Medicine and the Medical Education Council. These organisations seek to raise academic standards, encourage ethical behaviour, and maintain the Philippines' leadership in worldwide medical education.

Indian students who graduate from Commission on Higher Education (CHED)-accredited universities in the Philippines and complete their internships can now register to practice medicine in the country. Their medical certifications will be in line with the norms set by the Indian Medical Commission, allowing these students to practice medicine in India or around the world.

The Free Press Journal spoke to students and graduates to learn why Indian students chose the Philippines and their future plans.

Vellingiri Ganesan Dheenadayalan, pursuing a Doctor of Medicine at the Davao Medical School Foundation (DMSF), shared, “The decision to study in the Philippines stemmed from a combination of factors. Total expenses seemed to be affordable, and the Davao Medical School Foundation was an obvious choice if you are opting for the Philippines as your country of preference. It is a globally recognised medical curriculum that is very much accepted by the National Medical Council of India.”

He further stated that the DMSF students constantly top the chart in the Physician Licensure Exam, as well as the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam of India. This is indicative of quality education and an institution geared toward producing a highly skilled medical professional.

“Davao Medical School Foundation stood out for its advanced facilities, experienced faculty, and reputation for nurturing competent healthcare professionals. DMSF now holds the name for its local students acing the Physician Licensure Exam (PLE) with top ranks and its international students acing the Foreign Medical Graduate Exam (FMGE) in India with top 5 All India Ranks, which now I feel proud to be studying here.”

Gummula Sai Teja, a former student of DMSF, on the other hand, reflects on the benefits of exposure to a diverse range of medical conditions, making the transition to practice in India smoother. He said, “Davao Medical School Foundation in the Philippines provided me with quality education and exposure to disease conditions similar to those in India."

His decision to return to India after his studies shows the Philippines as a stepping stone for students. He said, “Now, as I prepare to clear my FMGE exam, I am eager to apply my knowledge and serve as a compassionate doctor in India.”