MANILA — In a significant development for public health in the Philippines, 24 pharmaceutical firms have indicated their interest in manufacturing anti-tuberculosis (TB) drugs, while another company is prepared to produce medicine for the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). This update was provided to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. by the Private Sector Advisory Council's Health Sector Group (PSAC-HSG) during a meeting at Malacañan Palace on Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, the meeting highlighted the PSAC-HSG's satisfaction with the Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) introduction of a green lane program for the expedited approval of anti-TB and HIV drugs. Led by Paolo Borromeo, president and CEO of Ayala Healthcare Holdings, Inc., the group committed to supporting local drug manufacturers in producing these essential medications. They also pledged to facilitate the ongoing implementation of the green lane program and ensure domestic bidder preference is consistently applied.
During the discussions, it was reported that five local manufacturers have agreed to produce anti-TB drugs, responding to President Marcos' call for increased local drug production to fight these diseases. Borromeo noted that such participation marks a change from the past, where few local companies would bid to produce anti-TB medicines. The reforms under the current administration have encouraged these manufacturers to engage in the Department of Health's procurement processes.
Borromeo expressed pride in the collaborative efforts with the Department of Health, emphasizing the importance of addressing TB and HIV, which are among the country's most challenging health issues. He mentioned that a bid was conducted in November, with the results eagerly anticipated.
The initiative for local production of HIV drugs is also underway, following President Marcos' directive to the DOH and FDA to collaborate with the private sector in identifying medicines that can be locally produced. This move aims to reduce costs and ensure a steady supply of critical medications.