The Philippines has introduced a significant policy change that will benefit Indian students pursuing medical degrees.
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The recent amendment to the Philippine Medical Act of 1959, approved by the House of Representatives, allows Indian medical graduates to register and practice medicine in the Philippines. This development follows years of advocacy from India, underscoring the Philippines’ status as a premier destination for medical education.
The Philippines is rapidly gaining recognition in the field of medical education, attracting students globally with its high-quality, affordable programmes. The country offers a curriculum aligned with US standards, which facilitates international career opportunities and is supported by a robust network of globally recognised residency programmes.
According to the new policy, Indian students who earn their Doctor of Medicine degree from a medical school recognised by the Commission on Higher Education (CHED) in the Philippines, and complete a 12-month internship, can now register and practice medicine in the country. The CHED will provide the necessary certification to ensure a seamless transition for these graduates.
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Kadwin Pillai, Director of Transworld Educare and Chairman of Kings International Medical Academy, highlighted the significance of this amendment, stating, “This is a landmark achievement for Indian and other international medical students in the Philippines. It recognises the high standards of medical education here and offers a clear path for our graduates to practice locally or internationally. This change will greatly benefit our students and bolster the Philippines’ reputation as a leading medical education hub in the Asia-Pacific region.”
This policy is particularly advantageous for Indian medical students, who increasingly favour the Philippines for its high-quality education, English medium instruction, and affordable living costs. The new regulations are also in line with the Indian Medical Commission’s requirements, enabling Indian graduates to practice in India after obtaining their MD degrees from the Philippines.
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With 64 authorised medical schools across the Philippines, Indian students now have even more reasons to pursue their medical education in this country. The amendment not only enhances their academic and professional opportunities but also strengthens the educational ties between India and the Philippines.
