MARCOS VOWS FUNDING FOR PH INSTITUTE FOR VIROLOGY, VACCINE PROJECT

RECOGNIZING the importance of preparing for another possible global pandemic, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. expressed strong support for the continued construction of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) building.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has requested funding for the project to prevent delays and avoid structural deterioration of the VIP Administration Building.

“I think in the immediate future, okay. We prepare for the big one, the big pandemic, President Marcos told Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. on Wednesday.

“But really it’s for the animals and the plants,” the President said. The VIP was established to conduct research on viruses and viral diseases.

The Chief Executive made the remarks during a meeting with DOST to discuss the agency’s 2025 budget and its upcoming programs and projects.

Solidum noted the 2025 national expenditure program of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) did not allocate a budget for the VIP.

President Marcos assured the government will find ways to secure funding.

“We find money for this when we are able to identify the specific items as you know not ready for implementation. ‘Yung hindi kumpleto ang papeles,” he told Solidum.

Solidum assured the VIP would not be limited to human health concerns, but would also address viruses affecting animal and plant health.

He told the President the VIP needs P680 million to pursue its plans, including the development of vaccines for humans, animals and plants.

“There are more balikbayan scientists now na gusto tumulong sa atin. We just need this facility (VIP),” he added.

The VIP is envisioned to be the country’s foundation for research and innovation on human, animal and plant viruses.