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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Philippines sets up 1st virology, vaccine institute; DOST to spearhead fight vs outbreaks

Philippines sets up 1st virology, vaccine institute; DOST to spearhead fight vs outbreaks

Published Sep 19, 2025 02:32 pm
(PHOTO: PIXABAY)
(PHOTO: PIXABAY)
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) will spearhead the country’s first national institute on virology research and vaccine development following the enactment of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.
On Sept. 12, President Marcos signed the VIP Act, formally establishing the institute under the DOST. The measure adopts the One Health Approach, integrating human, animal, and plant health in safeguarding the country from future pandemics and outbreaks.
Under the law, the DOST will oversee the creation and operations of the VIP, which will serve as the Philippines’ premier institution for the study of viruses and the development of diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the VIP underscores the country’s commitment to bolstering health defenses against fast-evolving viral threats.
“The establishment of the VIP marks the country’s commitment to strengthen local capacities in preparing for and responding to public health threats such as pandemics and disease outbreaks,” Solidum said in a statement.
“By building our capacities to face these threats, we protect the health and well-being of Filipinos, strengthen our economic resilience, and ensure sustainability,” he added.
The VIP, according to the agency, will also focus on viral diseases affecting livestock and crops, including African Swine Fever, Avian Influenza, and Tomato Leaf Curl Virus, which endanger food security.
DOST Undersecretary Leah J. Buendia stressed the urgency of establishing a specialized virology hub.
“Viruses are among the fastest-evolving threats to human, animal, and plant health, and we must keep pace with this reality. At present, the Philippines does not have a dedicated institution that focuses on diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development against viral diseases,” she said.
“With the growing number of viral infections affecting people, livestock, and crops, the need for a state-of-the-art virology research center has never been more urgent.”
Under the VIP Act, the institute is mandated to conduct virology discovery programs, pursue vaccine research, and promote evidence-based policies on virus and vaccine science. 
Also, it will forge partnerships with international research institutions and provide training to expand the country’s pool of experts.
DOST-Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD) Executive Director Jaime C. Montoya said the agency will move quickly to enforce the measure.
“With the enactment of the VIP Law, we, at the DOST, are committed to releasing the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) within 90 days. We will also gear up for extensive public consultations to ensure that the law is implemented transparently and inclusively,” Montoya said.
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