Zubiri urges mass production of UP-developed COVID-19 test kits

Senate Majority Leader Juan Miguel Zubiri is urging the government to immediately mass-produce COVID-19 test kits developed by the University of the Philippines-National Institute of Health (UP-NIH) after they received approval from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Zubiri expressed happiness regarding the FDA's approval, stating that the UP-developed test kits are more affordable and accessible, which will allow for catering to more patients.

He thanked Filipino scientists at UP for developing a solution to the country's test kit shortage, which has contributed to public panic.

Zubiri is willing to support a supplemental budget to facilitate the mass production and purchase of these test kits.

The senator believes that with the availability of these test kits, the Philippines can improve its diagnostic process and containment strategies for the virus.

This development comes as the Department of Health (DOH) confirmed nine new cases of COVID-19, bringing the total to 33, and a state of public health emergency has been declared in the country.