Eight Filipino scholars have officially commenced their graduate studies in Japan and Thailand under the PhilDOST–Tokyo University of Marine Science and Technology (TUMSAT) and PhilDOST–Asian Institute for Technology (AIT) Graduate Scholarship Programs, marking another significant step in the Philippines’ continuing efforts to strengthen its national expertise in science and technology.
Six scholars departed for Japan in October 2025 to pursue advanced studies in marine and aquatic disciplines at TUMSAT. Their deployment follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in August 2024 between the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and TUMSAT, which established a long-term partnership aimed at enhancing academic collaboration, research exchange, and capacity building between Filipino and Japanese institutions.
Meanwhile, following the recently signed MOU with AIT in July 2025, two scholars began their graduate studies in Thailand in September 2025 at the Asian Institute of Technology, specializing in development planning and innovations, as well as agricultural systems.
The 2025 cohort of PhilDOST scholars is composed of the following:
Program | Name | Degree |
PhilDOST-TUMSAT Graduate Scholarship Program | Jason Albances | PhD |
Dianne Peralta | PhD | |
Gabriel Sudayan | MS | |
Jasmin Jay Ambrosio III | MS | |
Angelica Bermil | MS | |
Mheljor General | MS | |
PhilDOST-AIT Graduate Scholarship Program | Analiza Diaz | PhD |
Kimberly Zarah Locsin | MS |
Throughout their stay at their respective host universities, the scholars will receive comprehensive academic, research, and mentorship support through the joint implementation of the program by the DOST–Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARRD) and the DOST–Science Education Institute (SEI).
Upon completion of their graduate programs, the scholars are expected to return to the Philippines to apply their graduate study learnings and contribute to national initiatives in marine and aquatic research, policy development, innovation, and sustainable development.
DOST-PCAARRD and DOST-SEI emphasized that the PhilDOST–TUMSAT and PhilDOST–AIT partnerships form part of the Department’s broader commitment to developing a strong pool of globally trained researchers and scientists. By providing Filipino scholars with access to high-quality international graduate education and research environments, these programs help ensure that the Philippines remains equipped with the expertise necessary to address current and emerging challenges in science and technology.