The Philippines is set to build its first dedicated virology research institute after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed into law the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.
Signed last Sept. 12, the VIP is placed under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and envisioned as the country’s flagship hub for cutting-edge research on viruses, diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development.
The project aims to position the Philippines as a regional player in virology and pandemic preparedness, anchored on the One Health Approach that unifies human, animal, and plant health.
“The establishment of the VIP marks the country’s commitment to strengthen local capacities in preparing for and responding to public health threats,” said DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. in a press release.
“By building our capacities to face these threats, we protect the health and well-being of Filipinos, strengthen our economic resilience, and ensure sustainability.”
The VIP will house advanced laboratories for pathogen discovery, vaccine design, and virus detection systems. It will also invest in early-warning technologies such as genomic surveillance and plant virus detection platforms.
Among its immediate priorities are tackling viral diseases that remain prevalent in the country—ranging from influenza and dengue in humans, to African Swine Fever and Avian Influenza in animals, and crop-damaging viruses like Tomato Leaf Curl.
Furthermore, DOST Undersecretary Leah Buendia said the institute addresses a critical gap in the nation’s scientific ecosystem.
“At present, the Philippines does not have a dedicated institution for diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccine development against viral diseases. The VIP changes that,” she noted.
In its first five years, the institute will focus on building local research capacity, forging global partnerships, and expanding virology infrastructure.
The DOST is set to release the implementing rules within 90 days, following consultations with stakeholders across health, agriculture, and technology sectors.
