The University of Santo Tomas (UST) Faculty of Pharmacy, in partnership with the Philippine Pharmacists Association, Inc. (PPhA), successfully hosted the 1st Philippine Doctor of Pharmacy International Forum on October 7–8, 2025, at the Central Laboratory Auditorium, University of Santo Tomas.
With the theme “Advancing Pharmacy Education and Practice through Global Expertise and Collaboration,” the pioneering event served as a vital platform for pharmacy educators, clinicians, practitioners, and students to exchange knowledge, share best practices, and foster international partnerships that strengthen pharmacy education and clinical practice in the Philippines.
The two-day forum featured distinguished faculty members from the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) College of Pharmacy, who shared their expertise in various fields of clinical pharmacy and academic mentorship.
Assoc. Prof. Jennifer T. Pham, Pharm.D., BCPS, BCPPS, Clinical Associate Professor at UIC, delivered an insightful lecture on Pediatric Pharmacy, addressing the unique challenges of pediatric medication management. She also conducted the workshop “Teaching Success: Core Skills Every Pharmacy Educator Needs,” which emphasized developing effective teaching and preceptorship strategies for pharmacy educators.
Asst. Prof. Christina Mactal-Haaf, Pharm.D., BCOP, Clinical Assistant Professor, discussed Oncology Pharmacy, highlighting strategies for optimizing chemotherapy regimens, managing treatment-related toxicities, and integrating palliative care into oncology practice. She also facilitated a workshop on “Developing Effective Mentorship and Supervision Skills.”
Asst. Prof. Benito T. Valdepeñas III, Pharm.D., BCTXP, RN, Clinical Assistant Professor, shared his expertise in Transplant Pharmacy, focusing on optimizing pharmacotherapy for solid organ transplant patients. His workshop, “Medication Therapy Management Without Borders: Enhancing Care Across Transitions,” explored approaches to improving continuity of care in complex clinical settings.
The forum opened with welcome remarks from Prof. Aleth Therese L. Dacanay, PhD, Dean of the UST Faculty of Pharmacy, followed by Ms. Irish Mhel C. Mitra, MSc, Program Coordinator of the Doctor of Pharmacy program, who presented an overview of the event and introduced the guest lecturers.
Day 1 featured specialized lectures on Pediatric, Oncology, and Transplant Pharmacy, culminating in a dynamic panel discussion that underscored collaborative, evidence-based approaches to improving patient care.
Day 2 focused on interactive workshops that strengthened participants’ competencies in mentorship, teaching, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The forum concluded with closing remarks from Asst. Prof. Renz Kenneth G. Cadiang, MSc, Assistant Dean of the Faculty, followed by the presentation of certificates of appreciation to the international speakers.
Prior to the forum, the UIC faculty members met with the top administrators of the UST Hospital and the USTH Pharmacy Department to discuss potential collaborations aimed at enhancing the hospital’s clinical pharmacy services.
The 1st Philippine Doctor of Pharmacy International Forum marked a significant milestone in advancing the Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program in the country. Through this initiative, the UST Faculty of Pharmacy reaffirmed its commitment to cultivating globally competent pharmacists who are equipped to lead and innovate in diverse healthcare settings.
By fostering international collaboration and promoting academic excellence, the Faculty continues to uphold its legacy as the pioneer of pharmacy education in the Philippines, steadfast in its mission to nurture Thomasian pharmacists who exemplify professional excellence, ethical integrity, and an unwavering dedication to advancing health care for all.