Bong Go urges public to stay informed amid ‘super flu’ reports

Bong Go urged the public to stay informed and rely on verified health information amid reports about a so-called “super flu,” while pointing to the recently enacted law establishing the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) as a long-term measure to strengthen the country’s disease preparedness.

Go, who serves as vice chairperson of the Senate Committee on Health, said health authorities and infectious disease specialists have clarified that the term “super flu” does not refer to a new or more dangerous pathogen, but to an influenza strain that appears to spread more efficiently than the usual seasonal flu.

Based on current monitoring, Go noted that recorded cases in the Philippines have been limited and that those infected have already recovered. Medical experts have also said the flu season may extend into the early months of the year, potentially leading to more reports of flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and body aches.

“These reports remind us that not every new term or label in the news means there is an unprecedented health crisis,” Go said, adding that “ang pinakamahalaga ay alam natin kung ano ang sinasabi ng ating mga eksperto at paano natin ito dapat unawain.”

He reiterated that existing influenza vaccines remain recommended and that basic health practices—such as adequate rest and avoiding crowded places when experiencing symptoms—continue to be important.

Go also stressed the need to go beyond reactive responses to health threats.

“Kung gusto nating mas maagang makaresponde sa mga ganitong sakit, kailangan may ilalagay tayong matatag na batayan sa siyensya at pananaliksik,” he said.

In this context, Go cited the creation of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines under Republic Act No. 12290, which mandates the establishment of a national research institute under the Department of Science and Technology (DOST). The institute is tasked with leading research on viruses and other pathogens affecting humans, animals, plants, and the environment.

Go served as principal author and co-sponsor of the Senate measure that became the VIP law, saying it reflects a proactive, science-based approach to addressing future health challenges beyond immediate outbreaks.

Under RA 12290, the VIP is mandated to conduct vaccine research from discovery to pre-clinical stages, develop diagnostics and therapeutics for emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases, and carry out discovery programs in virology, molecular biology, and bioinformatics. The law also calls for partnerships with local and international research institutions, investments in high-containment laboratories and biobanks, and the training of experts to strengthen local scientific capacity.

A dedicated site for the institute has been allocated within the New Clark Economic Zone in Capas, Tarlac, where the VIP’s headquarters and facilities are planned, although construction and full operations are still ongoing.

Go said the VIP Act aims to provide the Philippines with a sustained foundation for responding to future infectious disease threats.

“Sa pamamagitan ng VIP, hindi lang tayo nagrereact sa mga sakit; pinag-aaralan natin ito nang malalim at may sistemang kakayahan na naka-tala bago pa man mag-anunsyo ng susunod na banta sa kalusugan,” he said.

While health professionals continue to monitor influenza trends, Go emphasized that staying well-informed, practicing sensible health measures, and investing in scientific infrastructure such as the VIP are key to building a more resilient health system.