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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Villar throws hat in effort to enact this Marcos priority measure

Villar throws hat in effort to enact this Marcos priority measure

Published Oct 27, 2022 05:03 pm

Deputy Speaker and Las Piñas City lone district Rep. Camille Villar has joined the effort to make the proposed Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP)--which is a priority measure of the Marcos administration--a reality.

Las Piñas City lone district Rep. Camille Villar (Facebook)


This, after Villar filed House Bill (HB) 5683 or the proposed Virology Institute of the Philippines Act of 2022 in the current 19th Congress.

"Once enacted into law, this legislation will better equip the country with mechanisms and methods in dealing with another possible pandemic that could potentially wreak havoc into the lives and livelihood of people," the lady lawmaker said.

In filing the measure, Villar said she hopes that "systems can change to better handle future public health emergencies".

The institute, which will be under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), will be the focal agency in carrying out research relating to viruses and viral diseases in humans, plants, and animals.

It is also mandated to establish partnerships with experts and virology centers around the world to conduct innovative and pioneering research that will advance virology in the country, including the development of new treatments and vaccines.

"It is high time to pass this legislation as an immediate answer to prioritize the health and welfare of our countrymen," said Villar.

In his first State of the Nation Address (SONA) last July 25, President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. mentioned the proposed VIP as one of his administration's priority measures, and urged Congress to pass the legislation.

The House of Representatives approved its version of a VIP bill on third and final reading during the previous 18th Congress, following the emergence of the Covid-19 pandemic.

The House, which is currently on break, will resume its sessions on Nov. 7.

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