Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the government has begun planning for the establishment of the first Virology and Vaccine Institute.
In his 2026 State of the Nation Address (SONA), Marcos said the initiative aims to strengthen capacity in virology research and vaccine development.
In September 2025, Marcos enacted the bill establishing the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) under the Department of Science and Technology.
The VIP will be the premier for virology research, focusing on the development of locally made diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines against viral diseases affecting humans, animals, and plants.
Under the One Health Approach, the VIP will address viral threats across different sectors, including human health, agriculture, and food security.
These include diseases such as dengue, influenza, hepatitis, measles, African Swine Fever, and avian influenza.
The DOST said the institute will also establish advanced virology facilities, conduct vaccine research, train Filipino experts, and collaborate with local and international research institutions.
