Philippines set for Russia's COVID-19 vaccine Phase 3 trials starting Oct

The Philippines will begin Phase 3 clinical trials for Russia's coronavirus vaccine from October 2020 to March 2021, with registration with the FDA expected in April 2021.

According to Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque, President Rodrigo Duterte could be vaccinated by May 1, 2021 if the process moves as scheduled.

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) director general Eric Domingo said a vaccine may be available by the end of the year, with Phase 3 trials taking two to three months to complete.

Dr. Rontgene Solante, an infectious disease expert, estimates that if phase 3 clinical trials begin in September or October, the Philippines could have a vaccine by the first or second quarter of next year.