By Liezelle Soriano
MANILA — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. has expressed full support for the establishment of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP).
According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), the VIP is being established to conduct research on viruses and viral diseases.
“I think in the immediate future, yes, we need to prepare for the big one, the next big pandemic,” Marcos told the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) chief. “But really, it’s also for animals and plants,” he added.
The President made these remarks during a meeting with DOST officials to discuss the agency’s 2025 budget, as well as its upcoming programs and projects.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. pointed out that the 2025 national expenditure program for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) did not allocate funding for the VIP.
In response, the President assured that the government would explore ways to secure the necessary funding.
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