By Jesslyn Keith Valite

Davao Medical School Foundation, Inc. (DMSFI) has formalized a partnership with MMSU for multiplex test kits for virus detection development through a memorandum of agreement (MOA) signing on February 10 at the Ferdinand E. Marcos Hall.

MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco, Center for Cellular and Molecular Medical Research (CMED) Chief and Project Consultant Dr. Peter James Gann, DMSFI project staff member Ms. Leah Jane Ofirma, along with technical assistants Ms. Serah Cedeno and Mr. Dwyieth Antipololed led the signing ceremony.  

The ceremony was also witnessed by MMSU science research analysts Ms. Ma. Joy Theresa Agcaoili and Ms. Jimmbeth Zenila Fabia.
Through the College of Medicine (COM), CMED, and the Research Directorate, MMSU and DMSFI will develop multiplex kits for simultaneous detection of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), Hepatitis B Virus (HBV), and syphilis. Part of the collaboration includes the development of capacity for the production of recombinant agents.

The initiative is part of a project funded by the DMSFI's Department of Science and Technology, “Development of Rapid Immunoassay-Based Multiplex Test Kits for Simultaneous HIV, HBV, and Syphilis Detection,” which is closely monitored by the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development.

As the primary implementing institution, DMSFI is leading the project through its Center for Research and Development under its project head, Dr. Cecile Melisse Derecho. The team includes Dr. Christian Adam Espiritu, a project staff member and affiliate faculty member of COM, and graduate fellow Mr. Jonathan Sarines.

As a cooperating institution, MMSU will provide technical assistance, professional guidance, and support in molecular medicine through Dr. Gann's team. The university will also offer laboratory services and become the host institution for DMSFI’s studies.

MMSU OIC-President Prima Fe R. Franco expressed gratitude to DMSFI for the partnership and is proud to be part of the initiative. She also said the university is committed to advancing molecular, medical, and microbiological research.

"We hope this collaboration lasts, not just for this project but for many more in the future,” DMSFI project staff Ofirma told the university.
The project commenced last year, and the prototype of the test kits is expected to be completed by September 2025.