The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is continuing its nationwide public consultations for the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations (IRR) of Republic Act No. 12290, or the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.

In a video message, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said the COVID-19 pandemic underscored the importance of science, partnerships, and collaboration, noting that preparedness ultimately determines the country’s resilience to health crises.

“In the near future, the Institute will enable our country to conduct its own virology research, produce vaccines locally, and build a stronger national response against emerging and re-emerging infectious diseases. Our scientists and researchers will have the facilities to pursue research on pathogens with pandemic potential, understand their behavior, and develop diagnostic and preventive tools. Through this, we ensure that we can respond from a position of readiness, competence, and self-reliance when the next health crisis arrives,” Solidum said.

The Visayas leg of the consultations was held on 12 January 2026 at Cebu Technological University in Cebu City, bringing together representatives from government, academe, industry, research institutions, and civil society. The consultations aim to validate the draft IRR, enhance stakeholder participation, align provisions with existing legal and policy frameworks, clarify institutional roles and responsibilities, and strengthen transparency and accountability ahead of the IRR’s finalization.

Signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on 12 September 2025, the VIP Act mandates the establishment of the country’s premier national institute for virology research and development. Anchored on the One Health Approach, the institute is envisioned to lead programs in virology and vaccine research, develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic solutions, and address pathogens affecting humans, animals, plants, and their shared environment.

Cebu Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro, in a message delivered by Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Mary Rose Vincoy, expressed the province’s support for initiatives that advance research, innovation, and public health security.

“We always stand ready to collaborate with national agencies, academics, and institutions in building a future where knowledge saves lives and preparedness protects generations,” she said.

For the Visayas leg, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia led the consultation as chairperson of the inter-agency technical working committee crafting the IRR. She was joined by DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Teodoro M. Gatchalian and DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute Director Annabelle V. Briones as vice chairpersons, along with senior officials from various DOST councils and offices.

Buendia said the IRR will serve as the framework for implementing the VIP Act, ensuring coordination, accountability, and alignment with the law’s vision for a stronger, science-driven Philippines.

The DOST said the remaining public consultations will be held on 20 January 2026 for the Mindanao leg and 27 January 2026 for the National Capital Region. The department added that the IRR is targeted for finalization in February 2026, in line with its broader push to deliver science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions under its OneDOST4U agenda.