Duterte OKs rapid COVID-19 test kit purchase amid debate

President Rodrigo Duterte has authorized the immediate procurement of rapid test kits for COVID-19, even without regulatory approval from local authorities, stating he is willing to "take the risk" to enhance the government's efforts.

Duterte instructed Health Secretary Francisco Duque III and National Task Force COVID-19 Chief Implementer Carlito Galvez Jr. to proceed with the purchase immediately, noting that the kits have approval from the US FDA.

The delay in procurement was due to debates among health authorities regarding the efficacy of the rapid test kits.

Senator Panfilo Lacson commended Duterte's executive action for countermanding the DOH secretary, calling it the "kind of executive action that we need."

Cabinet Secretary Karlo Nograles clarified that while the DOH and PhilHealth require approval from the Health Technology Assessment Council, other agencies like the Office of Civil Defense can proceed with the purchase under the state of calamity.

The government plans to use both PCR test kits and rapid tests for detection, isolation, and treatment, with priority given to probable and suspected cases, hospitalized patients, and health workers.

The procurement also includes PCR machines, automatic extracting machines, biomedical freezers, and other necessary equipment, with an intended purchase of P3.3 billion worth of test kits that can test 900,000 people.