Erna Arollado, Ph.D.

Dr. Erna Arollado is a renowned professor and scientist with over two decades of experience in pharmaceutical sciences, specializing in natural product development, drug formulation, and phytochemistry. She served as a Professor at the University of the Philippines Manila, College of Pharmacy (2000-2023) and as Director of the Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2013-2023). Dr. Arollado has also made significant contributions to the National Research Council of the Philippines (NRCP), serving as Chair of Division IV Pharmaceutical Sciences (2018-2023). Dr. Arollado holds a PhD in Pharmacy from the University of Santo Tomas and completed a post-doctoral fellowship in Phytochemistry and Herbal Product Development at Rangsit University, Thailand. Her research focuses on the therapeutic potential of Philippine plants, particularly for natural product formulations. Notably, she has led groundbreaking studies on Alternanthera

sessilis for hematologic disorders, Cocos nucifera for wound healing, and pectin extraction from fruit wastes for pharmaceutical use. Her work on sustainable excipients and antimicrobial discovery from mangrove soils showcases her commitment to eco-friendly pharmaceutical solutions. Her extensive list of peer-reviewed publications spans topics like wound healing, anti-diabetic compounds, and natural preservatives. Her work on optimizing pectin extraction processes has gained attention for its sustainability potential. Dr. Arollado’s research excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including the Best Mentor in Health Research Award (DOST, 2021), Gawad Chancellor Award for Outstanding Researcher (UP Manila, 2019), and Outstanding Pharmacist in Research (PPhA, 2019). She was also named University Scientist by the UP System (2016-2022) and holds several patents for herbal oils and extraction processes.

An active member of various professional organizations, including the International Pharmaceutical Federation and the Philippine Pharmacists Association, Dr. Arollado continues to push the boundaries of pharmaceutical science, focusing on antimicrobial discovery, psychobiotic interactions, and natural treatments for chronic diseases like diabetes and anemia.