PCPI backs FDA ‘Green Lane’

The Philippine Chamber of Pharmaceutical Industry (PCPI) has thrown its support behind the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) push to institutionalize a “Green Lane” aimed at speeding up regulatory processes for health establishments and products aligned with the government’s national development priorities.

The proposed Green Lane will cover health products and facilities under the Strategic Investment Priority Plan, Tatak Pinoy enterprises, and other priority programs of the government.

PCPI, the country’s largest association of local pharmaceutical companies, said the initiative aligns with its long-standing advocacy for policies that promote innovation, affordability, and self-reliance in medicines. The group represents around 90 Filipino-owned pharmaceutical firms, including Unilab Inc., the country’s biggest drug manufacturer.

The chamber said it has actively supported the expansion of the Green Lane through policy discussions, public-private partnerships, and regular engagements with the FDA, the Department of Health, the Anti-Red Tape Authority and other stakeholders.

“PCPI strongly applauds the FDA’s proactive regulatory reforms, which strike a balance between efficiency and unwavering safety standards,” PCPI president Dr. Lloyd Balajadia said.

He said the initiative is expected to generate economic value, create jobs and allow life-saving medicines to reach patients faster — drawing from regulatory models already in place in countries such as Singapore, India and China.