President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. on Wednesday assured the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) that his administration will find ways to fund the construction of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP).

This assurance followed DOST Secretary Renato Solidum's disclosure that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had not allocated funding for the VIP's construction. Solidum emphasized the need for funding to prevent delays and structural deterioration of the VIP Administration Building.

"We [will] find money for this when we are able to identify the specific items [that are] not ready for implementation — the ones that do not have complete documents," Marcos told Solidum.

Meanwhile, Marcos reiterated his support for the department, particularly in its preparation for future pandemics.

"I think in the immediate future, okay. We prepare for the big one, the big pandemic," Marcos said.

The VIP was established to conduct research on viruses and viral diseases. Marcos expressed his hope that the DOST would also expand its studies to include animals and plants through the institute.

Solidum assured Marcos that the VIP would not be limited to human health concerns but would also address viruses affecting animal and plant health.

According to the DOST chief, the agency will require P680 million to pursue its plans for the VIP, including vaccine development for humans, animals, and plants. He also noted that more Filipino scientists who have worked overseas have returned home and expressed their willingness to contribute to the country's research efforts.