Saint Louis University (SLU), through the Office of Global Relations and Alumni Affairs (OGRAA), hosted an awarding event on 2 April 2025 at the American Corner in the Msgr. Charles Vath Building Library, highlighting the school’s ongoing partnership with Pilipinas Shell Foundation Inc. (PSFI) and Bloomberry Cultural Foundation Inc. (BCFI) in supporting medical education. The event, which focused on the Medical Scholarship Program (MSP), was attended by representatives from the scholarship sponsors and the MSP grantees.
In her opening remarks and inspirational message, OGRAA Director, Stephenie O. Busbus, PhD, emphasized the importance of partnerships in ensuring that aspiring healthcare professionals receive the support they need to succeed. BCFI Executive Director, Ms. Filipina Laurena, also delivered a message of support, highlighting the foundation’s commitment to empowering students in the medical field and strengthening the country’s healthcare system.
During the awarding ceremony, 38 scholars from various medical and health sciences programs were recognized for their academic achievements. Among the recipients were eight Doctor of Medicine students, four Bachelor of Science in Nursing students, four Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Technology students, six Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences students, 15 Bachelor of Science in Psychology students, and one Bachelor of Science in Biology student. One of the scholars, Jana Kaye A. Balicdang, a Doctor of Medicine scholarship grantee, shared a heartfelt message of gratitude, saying, “We hope to pay forward helping others as you have helped us.”
Following the awarding, a scholarship orientation was conducted by PSFI Program Officer, Sir Joe-Marck Bauzon, providing scholars with valuable insights into the program’s objectives, expectations, and requirements. The event concluded with a closing message from Sir Benito, reaffirming SLU’s, PSFI’s, and BCFI’s shared commitment to fostering educational excellence and healthcare advancement.
This partnership aligns with the commitment of SLU to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 4 (Quality Education), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG 17 (Partnership for the Goals). By expanding scholarship opportunities, SLU, PSFI, and BCFI continue to play a vital role in developing competent healthcare professionals who will contribute meaningfully to the nation’s medical field. Through collaboration and support, the Medical Scholarship Program remains a beacon of hope for students striving to make a difference in the lives of others. (Article by Danielle Canlas, OGRAA Intern | Photos by Kathreena Cabañero, OGRAA Intern)
