The University of the Philippines (UP) Manila will function as a testing site for the country’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA), providing specific laboratory services, including the testing of health product samples.

This development follows a memorandum of agreement (MoA) signed by UP Manila and the FDA last 15 April.

Under the agreement, the FDA will also become an accredited internship site for UP Manila students in related fields such as pharmacology and pharmacy.

UP Manila Chancellor Michael Tee highlighted that the initiative will prepare students for roles in the regulatory sector by familiarizing them with FDA processes, including product registration, compliance and post-market surveillance.

He added that the exposure aims to ensure their competence in both scientific and regulatory responsibilities.

“This collaboration opens opportunities for both agencies, from curricular co-development to enhancement of laboratory and regulatory services,” Tee said. “Our focus will be on ensuring the delivery of quality services and products to the Filipinos.”

Furthermore, Tee cited that the agreement stipulates UP Manila will lead specialized academic and scientific training programs to enhance the technical skills of FDA employees and personnel.

The agreement also seeks to promote the education and training of future drug regulatory experts through practical training and collaborative research projects, according to the university.