Representatives from the National Center for Global Health and Medicine (NCGM) paid a courtesy call to West Visayas State University on September 30, 2024 to discuss plans for a possible partnership, which include improving vaccine clinical research.

The visiting delegation was led by Dr. Muchanga Sifa, Regional Manager, National Center for Global Health and Medicine (NCGM) accompanied by Dr. Maria Ruriko Umano.

Dr. Joselito Villaruz, President, WVSU welcomed the NCGM visitors, and thanked them for considering WVSU as a partner in the pursuit of improving vaccines and other forms and processes of clinical research.

Dr. Villaruz delivered a speech, highlighting WVSU’s continuous efforts and achievements in establishing itself as a world-class medical institution. He noted substantial potential for cooperation between the two entities in medical technology innovation, clinical practices, and talent development, emphasizing that strengthened collaboration would significantly propel mutual progress.

In addition, developing and actively participating in the Academic Research Organization (ARO) Alliance for ASEAN & East Asia (ARISE) highlighted on the meeting to increase networking in the field of clinical research.

Also, present during the meeting were Dr. Celina Gellada, Vice President for Medical and Allied Sciences; Dr. Greta G. Gabinete, VP for Research, Innovation and Extension; Dr. Victor A. Amantillo, JR., Dean, College of Medicine (COM); DR. Dave Endel R. Gelito III, Medical Center Chief II; DR. Stephen Sabinay, Head, Center for Biotechnology & Biomedical Research; Dr. Ryan Michael Oducado, Director, University Research & Development Center, and faculties from College of Medicine.

This visit marked a pivotal moment for potential collaborations between WVSU and NCGM setting the stage for future advancements in international medical practices and mutual learning.