Malacañan Palace
January 15, 2025

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. conveyed strong support for the continued construction of the Virology and Vaccine Institute of the Philippines (VIP) building when he met with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Malacañan Palace.

The DOST is requesting for funding of the project to prevent delays and avoid structural deterioration of the VIP Administration Building, noting that the 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) did not allocate a budget for the VIP.

President Marcos Jr. gave his assurance that the government would find ways to secure funding. “We find money for this when we are able to identify the specific items as you know not ready for implementation. Yung hindi kumpleto ang papeles,” he said.

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum informed the Chief Executive that the VIP needs PhP680 million to pursue its plans, including the development of vaccines for humans, animals and plants. He added that more balikbayan scientists are willing to help the DOST and that they just need the VIP facility.

The Vaccine Institute of the Philippines is envisioned to be the country’s foundation for research and innovation on human, animal and plant viruses.

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