Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) formally introduced its pioneering College of Medicine (CoMed) during a courtesy meeting with newly appointed faculty members at the CoMed Audio-Visual Room, DMMMSU-SLUC, Agoo, La Union, on May 15, 2025.

The meeting highlighted the University’s ongoing initiatives to expand its academic offerings in the health sciences, particularly through the establishment of the Doctor of Medicine program aimed at addressing regional needs in medical education and healthcare delivery.

The event was attended by Dr. Jaime I. Manuel, Jr., DMMMSU President; Dr. Vicky A. Agpasa, Vice President for Academic and International Affairs; Dr. Joanne C. Rivera, SLUC Chancellor; and Dr. Ricardo Guanzon, CoMed Dean. Dignitaries from the Ilocos Training and Regional Medical Center (ITRMC), namely Dr. Eduardo M. Badua III, Medical Center Chief; Dr. Mario Gerardo R. Tolentino, Head of the Professional Education, Training, and Research Office; Dr. Mervin E. De Guzman, Training Officer of the Medical Division; and Dr. Jan Paulette D. Velasco, Coordinator of the Post Graduate Internship Program were also present during the meeting. 

Following the morning break, the participants conducted a tour of the newly furnished College of Medicine (CoMed) facilities. The state-of-the-art laboratories and advanced medical equipment were benchmarked against those of the University of the Philippines Manila, reflecting DMMMSU’s commitment to high standards in medical education.

In his address during the formal meeting, University President Jaime I. Manuel, Jr. reiterated the University’s high expectations for the pioneering batch of medical students. “Since these students will be the first to graduate from our college, I expect nothing less than a 100% passing rate on the board exams,” he declared, emphasizing the University’s dedication to producing competent medical professionals from La Union

The event also included the ceremonial signing of contracts, facilitated by Ms. Jenifher L. De Vera, OIC-HRMO, signifying formal commitments to support the establishment and operationalization of the College of Medicine.

Classes for the Doctor of Medicine Program will commence on June 30, 2025. (By Gloeduard G. Milanes)