Virology and Vaccine Institute IRR consultations are continuing in Cebu as the Department of Science and Technology moves forward with drafting the implementing rules of the VIP Act.

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) continues the series of its public consultation for the drafting of the Implementing Rules and Regulations or IRR of Republic Act No. 12290, otherwise known as the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) Act.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., in a video message, reflected on the lessons of the COVID-19 pandemic, saying that it revealed the power of science, partnership, and collaboration and showed that preparedness determines the country’s resilience.

“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,” he said.

Expected outcomes of the public consultations include a validated draft IRR, enhanced stakeholder participation, alignment with legal and policy frameworks, defined institutional roles and responsibilities, strengthened transparency and accountability, and informed finalization of the IRR.

Anchored in the One Health Approach, the institute will lead programs in virology and vaccine research, develop diagnostic tools and therapeutic solutions that address viruses and other pathogens affecting plants, animals, and humans, as well as their shared environment. Embracing the interconnectedness of these domains, it will champion evidence-based virology and vaccine policies, foster strong partnerships with local and global research institutions, and train experts to expand national capacity. It will also invest in advanced infrastructure and offer technical support to the broader scientific community, reinforcing a collaborative, multisectoral, and transdisciplinary framework.

Signed into law by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. on September 12, 2025, the VIP Act mandates the creation of the country’s premier national institute for virology research and development. 

Cebu Province Governor Pamela S. Baricuatro, in a message delivered by Cebu Provincial Veterinarian Dr. Mary Rose Vincoy, assured their continued support for initiatives to 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.

This event follows the initial consultation held in Clark, Pampanga for the Luzon Leg, as part of a nationwide series aimed at gathering stakeholder insights to shape a responsive administrative and technical framework for the country’s premier virology research institute.

For the Visayas leg, DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia led the public consultation as the chairperson of the Inter-agency Technical Working Committee for the crafting of the IRR, alongside DOST Undersecretary for Special Concerns Teodoro M. Gatchalian and DOST-Industrial Technology Development Institute Director Annabelle V. Briones as the vice-chairs of the same committee; DOST-PCHRD Executive Director Dr. Jaime C. Montoya; DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development Executive Director Enrico C. Paringit; DOST-Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development Executive Director Reynaldo V. Ebora; Department of Legislative Liaison Office Director Lita S. Suerte Felipe; and Atty. Jordan C. Tiburan from the DOST Legal team.

In her discussion of the rationale and the salient features of the law, Usec. Buendia said that the IRR will provide the framework that will guide how the VIP Law will be carried out—ensuring coordination, accountability, and alignment with the law’s vision for a stronger, science-driven Philippines.

With the draft IRR set to be finalized in February 2026, the DOST will conduct the remaining public consultations for the draft IRR on January 20, 2026, for the Mindanao leg while the NCR leg will be conducted on January 27, 2026. Further, it is one of the initiatives of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) aimed at providing science-based, innovative, and inclusive solutions across four strategic pillars: promotion of human well-being, fostering wealth creation, reinforcing wealth protection, and institutionalizing sustainability. These pillars embody the mantra OneDOST4U: Solutions and Opportunities for All.