PH eyes local vaccine production with India's help

The Philippines is exploring local vaccine production, with India's Serum Institute of India (SII) willing to assist in developing domestic manufacturing capabilities.

Vaccine czar Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. stated that the Philippines can learn from India's vaccine manufacturing experience.

Glovax Biotech Corp. is also in talks with the government for a vaccine self-sufficiency program to bring technology into the country for local production.

Health Secretary Francisco Duque III stressed the need for local production to reduce dependence on other nations, a necessity highlighted by the pandemic.

This initiative aims to revive the country's vaccine manufacturing capacity and secure a consistent supply.

Angelo Palmones, president of AGHAM, described the pronouncements on local vaccine production as 'long overdue' and urged the government to prioritize R&D in medicine.

Palmones believes that a local pharmaceutical industry would offer significant opportunities for future generations in vaccine development for both human and livestock.