University of the Philippines Baguio, BS Biology graduate Khianne Orteza (BSc’23) has earned a C$10,000 McCall MacBain Regional Award. This scholarship recognizes engaged student leaders who have demonstrated exceptional character, community engagement, leadership potential, entrepreneurial spirit, academic strength, and intellectual curiosity. It provides funding for a full-time master’s or professional program at any public university in Canada.
Khianne recently graduated magna cum laude from University of the Philippines Baguio, where he majored in Microbiology under the BS Biology program and co-authored a research paper on biotherapeutics as treatment for skin conditions. He participates in a volunteer program, conducting workshops at under-served schools in the Cordillera, and assists patients at an HIV clinic. Khianne also helped raise funds for a sustainability initiative and contributed to a teletherapy service. One of his most significant leadership experiences was initiating a science training program during an internship in 2019. Khianne is applying for master’s programs in microbiology and related fields.
“The McCall MacBain Regional Award fuels my drive in connecting science with people’s lives through education,” said Khianne.
Khianne placed among the top 50 of international applicants from 2,250 universities. He is one of the first two Philippines university graduates selected for the program.
The McCall MacBain Scholarships are the result of a landmark C$200 million gift in 2019, then the largest single donation in Canadian history, by John and Marcy McCall MacBain.
Applications will open in June 2024 for September 2025 admission. In addition to 30 fully funded scholarships, up to 100 awards of C$5,000 to $20,000 will be offered. More information about the McCall MacBain Scholarships can be found at mccallmacbainscholars.org.
The Department of Biology extends our congratulations and join BS Biology graduate Khianne Orteza in celebrating his achievement!