Bill creating virology, vaccine institute passed

The House of Representatives on Monday approved on third and final reading a measure setting up the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP).

House Bill No. 6452 or the VIP Act was approved following the affirmative votes by 216 lawmakers at the plenary and a report was transmitted to the Senate.

The VIP under HB 6452 would primarily conduct research on viruses and other pathogens; develop diagnostics, vaccines and treatment for viruses and other pathogens; establish international cooperation and network of databases of virus infections; operate a virology laboratory, virus gene bank and virus genome laboratory; and operate a virus high-containment laboratory dedicated to the study of highly infectious and highly pathogenic viruses.

The institute would be an attached agency of the Department of Science and Technology “for purposes of policy and progress coordination to ensure alignment in national policies and priorities.”

The VIP would serve as the “premier research and development institute in the field of virology, encompassing all kinds of viruses and viral diseases in plants, animals, and humans.

It shall also be a venue for scientists, research institutes and other organizations in the Philippines and abroad to work collaboratively to study viruses of agricultural, industrial, clinical and environmental importance.” INQ