By Frances Batara, StratCom Correspondent

A total of 16 pharmacy students from MMSU College of Health Sciences are currently participating in an intensive two-week Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Training Program at Huachiew Chalermprakiet University (HCU) in Samut Prakan, Thailand, running from November 4 to 16. This program provides hands-on, specialized training to enhance the students' practical skills and global competencies in pharmaceutical manufacturing. 

Accompanied by Prof. Anabelle Alejo, the student-trainees include Danicka Mae Abella, Danica Jane Agni, Edmar Berwin Alcarion, Keren Cacacho, Debrahlene Heart Najila Corpuz, Trixie Anne Felicitas, Kaylene Mariz Guillermo, Reyleen Cheska Manguilin, CJ Ernest Angelo Pingao, Francine Kyla Siobal, Dhanielle Ann Sonido, Nesch-leen Gwyneth Taal, Valeska Gesswein Tugas, Helena Shayne Ver, Jhon Lloyd Villa, and Kathrina Jane Villanueva.

During the program, the students engage in both technical lectures and hands-on laboratory activities on key topics in pharmaceutical manufacturing, including solid dosage forms (powders, granules, and tablets), semi-solids (creams, gels, and ointments), and parenteral preparation and ampule sealing. In addition to the classroom and lab sessions, the students are visiting a local pharmaceutical manufacturing plant to observe Thailand’s industry-standard practices in quality control and quality assurance, providing a real-world perspective on the stringent processes involved in pharmaceutical manufacturing.

To culminate their training, each student will present an assigned project to demonstrate their understanding and application of the skills they acquired during the program. “The knowledge and skills gained through this program can be effectively integrated into our curriculum, enriching our students’ learning experience with industry-leading practices,” said Prof. Alejo, who is also participating in the training sessions.

This training program is part of the students' Pharmaceutical Manufacturing (PHARM 152) course under Prof. Alejo, aiming to equip them with essential skills for success in the pharmaceutical industry. By witnessing best practices in pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control, MMSU aims to enhance the competencies of future Filipino pharmacists, preparing them to excel in an increasingly interconnected and regulated field.

MMSU’s involvement in this training is a key initiative of the formalized partnership between MMSU and Huachiew Chalermprakiet University, which was signed on August 28 through a memorandum of understanding (MOU). This collaboration aims to further develop the competencies of future Filipino pharmacists, preparing them for success in an interconnected and regulated industry