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Canada, India to collaborate with PH for COVID-19 vaccine trials

Philippines | National

Canada, India to collaborate with PH for COVID-19 vaccine trials

By Dhel Nazario

Both Canada and India have expressed interest in collaborating with the Philippines in their vaccine trials for COVID-19.

(PIXABAY / MANILA BULLETIN)

This was announced by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Fortunato dela Pena in the agency's weekly report.

He said the collaboration is opportune as it will "provide the Philippines more options" in its fight against COVID- 19.

No other information regarding the collaboration was disclosed only that India will be working with a company called Bharat Biotech. .

Last June, the agency had a consultative meeting with the local pharmaceutical industry to discuss plans for COVID-19 vaccine trials.

The DOST and the Phillipine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) are hoping the local pharma industry is open to the opportunity not just in combating the ongoing pandemic, but to prepare for the future as well.

PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime C. Montoya said the country will be dependent on global supply if a vaccine will not be developed locally.

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