Manila: To further boost the country's livestock sector, the Department of Agriculture (DA) on Monday launched the PHP140.9-million Animal Vaccine Development Program (AVDP). Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. led the signing of the agreement for the establishment of the AVDP in partnership with the DA-National Livestock Program, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC), and Central Luzon State University (CLSU).

According to Philippines News Agency, the DA chief stated that the program seeks to ensure food security and improve the country's long-term disease defenses. Tiu Laurel highlighted that local vaccine development will strengthen the swine and poultry industries amid ongoing recovery efforts from the effects of African swine fever (ASF) and avian influenza (AI) outbreaks. He emphasized the importance of investing in science, research, and innovation to protect livelihoods, strengthen food systems, and build a more resilient future for the livestock sector.

He further explained that vaccines developed in the Philippines could offer a key advantage over imported products because they can be tailored to local pathogen strains, potentially improving their effectiveness in preventing outbreaks. The DA announced that it has secured PHP77.6 million for the AVDP this year, with additional funding of PHP30.6 million for 2027, and PHP32.7 million for 2028.

The AVDP will establish a Biosafety Level 3 facility to allow scientists to safely handle high-risk animal pathogens and accelerate vaccine development. This laboratory will also support advanced research, technical training, and disease preparedness efforts. Researchers will focus on developing vaccine candidates for ASF and foot-and-mouth disease (FMD). Although the Philippines remains FMD-free, neighboring countries have reported outbreaks, posing a threat to the local livestock sector. Besides ASF and FMD, the AVDP also aims to boost the country's capacity in animal health research and innovation.