Senators Alan and Pia Cayetano Lead Senate Push for Virology Institute

by: Edjun Mariposque

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January 31, 2025

3–4 minutes

Philippines – Senators Alan Peter and Pia Cayetano are spearheading efforts to strengthen the country’s virology research and vaccine development as the Senate began deliberations on the proposed Virology Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.

On Tuesday, Senator Pia, the bill’s sponsor, led the interpellation for Senate Bill No. 2893 under Committee Report No. 423, highlighting the importance of establishing a specialized agency to study viruses affecting humans, animals, and plants.

“The VIP will serve as the lead convenor for research and development in virology, covering the discovery phase up to the pre-clinical stages,” Senator Pia explained, assuring that the VIP would complement, not overlap, with the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM).

The discussion saw participation from Senators Aquilino “Koko” Pimentel III, Francis Tolentino, and Risa Hontiveros.

Senator Pia also emphasized the bill’s adherence to the One Health System, a collaborative framework recognizing the interconnectedness of people, animals, and the environment in tackling infectious diseases. The proposed governing board of the VIP would be chaired by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary, with the Secretaries of the Department of Health (DOH) and the Department of Agriculture (DA) serving as co-chairs.

Senator Alan, who chairs the Senate Committee on Science and Technology, has been actively pushing for stronger virology research capabilities. “The entire government must act quickly to address public health and economic crises. The VIP will be essential in saving lives and protecting livelihoods,” he stressed.

Originally proposed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the VIP Act aims to establish a state-of-the-art research institute dedicated to virus studies, vaccine development, and pandemic preparedness.

The Senate is expected to continue deliberations in the coming sessions, bringing the country a step closer to enhancing its readiness against future health emergencies.

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