The Manila Central University (MCU) College of Pharmacy welcomed representatives from Mercury Drug Corporation for a courtesy visit and exploratory meeting on October 27, 2026, to discuss potential partnerships and collaborative initiatives in pharmacy education and professional development.
The Mercury Drug delegation was led by Mr. Steven Q. Azcona, President; Ms. Maria Thelma D. Villaflor, Vice President for Administration; and Ms. Julie Ann R. Mercado, Assistant Vice President for Human Resources.
They were received by Dr. Renato C. Tanchoco, Jr., University President; Dr. Estela Marie C. Tanchoco, MCU-FDTMF President; Dr. Karina Marie S. Batu-Villena, Dean of the College of Pharmacy; Ms. Mary Grace C. Antioquia, External Affairs Director; Dr. Katrin Bernadette M. Santos, Internship Coordinator; and Assoc. Prof. Anjo E. Zausa.
During the meeting, representatives from both institutions explored opportunities for collaboration that could benefit MCU students, faculty members, and the wider pharmacy profession. Discussions focused on potential partnerships and activities that would support pharmacy education and help prepare future pharmacists for professional practice.
The meeting brought together two institutions with established roles in Philippine pharmacy: MCU, which traces its beginnings to the first Filipino-run School of Pharmacy in 1904, and Mercury Drug, one of the country’s leading drugstore chains.
Through this initial discussion, both institutions expressed a shared interest in exploring opportunities that could strengthen pharmacy education and support the development of practice-ready pharmacists.
MCU extends its appreciation to Mercury Drug Corporation for the visit and looks forward to opportunities for future collaboration.
