The proposed Virology Science and Technology Institute of the Philippines of the Department of Science and Technology will have a P284-million fund in 2021 for or the purchase of equipment and other needs that will be used to start research activities.
DoST Undersecretary for Research and Development Dr. Rowena Cristina L. Guevara shared the update on the proposed virology institute that will be the country’s premier research facility encompassing all areas in the study of viruses and viral diseases.
Last Thursday, during a hearing by the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, some senators expressed concern that the proposed VIP can lead to duplicating functions among government agencies.
Guevara has underscored the importance of the VIP that would focus mainly on studying and developing vaccines on humans, animals, and plants. She said that there are research projects that have been approved and these would focus on the Zika virus, African Swine Flu for pigs, and “kadang-kadang” for coconut.
The bill creating the VIP has been filed in the House of Representatives and in the Senate.
VIP is eyed for construction at New Clark City in Tarlac by 2021 according to the Bases Conversion and Development Authority
.
Presidential Adviser for Flagship Programs and Projects BCDA President and CEO Vince Dizon has said that the VIP has been included in the administration's list of infrastructure flagship projects.
"The Virology Science and Technology Institute of the Philippines, which will be prioritizing research on infectious diseases will be hosted by New Clark City, and this was just recently approved by the Economic Development Cluster," Dizon said.
According to Dizon, the approval of the virology institute as one of the IFPs is part of the government’s response in including new projects that will address the emerging needs brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic.