The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is eyeing the establishment of a virology institute to conduct new and scientific studies on viruses.
“’Di lang naman basta pag-aaral ng virus ‘yan ano? ‘Yan ay para magkaroon ng capability na mag-develop ng diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics or medicines para sa diseases and virus (That is not only for the study of viruses. It is also meant to have the capability to develop diagnostics, vaccines, and therapeutics or medicines for diseases and virus),” DOST Sec. Fortunato De La Peῆa explains.
The DOST reveals it has been aiming to bring back more scientists to the country this 2020 but will first invite scientists from rural areas due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
President Rodrigo Duterte is already reviewing the said plan.
Meanwhile, the DOST is currently communicating with vaccine experts and research groups in other countries for the trials of some vaccines.
De La Peῆa discloses the DOST has enough funds for the ongoing fight against COVID-19 but cannot conclude if the situation will be the same next year. – Report from Mica Joson
