Multi-stakeholder groups from the government, academe, medical and research community, private sector, and patient organizations gathered in a forum to jumpstart discussions aimed at transforming the Philippines as a major hub for clinical trials in the ASEAN region.
The effort to propel the Philippines as a center of excellence in clinical trials is aligned with one of the goals of the Department of Health – Philippine Medicines Policy The research and development of medicines and vaccines is a long, risky, and complex process that requires significant investments and expertise. On average, researchers are able to identify one promising drug from among 5,000–10,000 screened compounds. Researchers then extensively test the compound to ensure its efficacy and safety, a process that can take 10 to 15 years.
“I reiterate the UK’s unwavering commitment to the Philippines to remain a reliable partner for Health and Science, especially as we build back better after the COVID pandemic. Our most notable achievement in this sector over the last four years has been building agile partnerships across the Philippines’ dynamic Health and Science landscape, anchored on a shared commitment to leave no one behind – walang iwanan.