The Philippine Department of Agriculture (DA) has rolled out a USD 2.3 million Animal Vaccine Development Program (AVDP) to strengthen defenses against livestock diseases. The initiative, backed by Central Luzon State University (CLSU) and partner agencies, targets diseases like African swine fever (ASF) and foot‑and‑mouth disease (FMD).
Building homegrown vaccine capacity
The DA signed agreements with CLSU, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), and the Philippine Carabao Center (PCC) to establish the AVDP. Funding will be spread across three years: USD 1.27 million in 2026, USD 500,000 in 2027, and USD 535,000 in 2028.
Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr said locally developed vaccines can be tailored to Philippine pathogen strains, offering stronger protection than imported products. He stressed that collaboration and innovation are vital to safeguard farmers’ livelihoods and stabilize food supply.
Research priorities and new facilities
The program will prioritize vaccine candidates for ASF and FMD. While the Philippines remains FMD‑free, outbreaks in nearby countries pose risks. ASF, meanwhile, has already caused billions in losses to hog farmers.
A key component is the planned Biosafety Level 3 laboratory at CLSU’s Center for Transboundary Animal Diseases (CenTrAD). This facility will allow scientists to safely handle high‑risk pathogens, accelerate vaccine development, and provide advanced training in disease preparedness.
Strengthening livestock resilience
CLSU President Evaristo Abella and CenTrAD Director Virginia Venturina highlighted the university’s role in advancing veterinary research and producing vaccines suited to local conditions. They noted that the program reflects the Marcos administration’s push for innovation in agriculture.
By investing in science, the DA aims to shift from reactive outbreak management to proactive prevention. Officials believe this will restore industry confidence and reduce economic damage from future epidemics. Additionally, the program supports broader goals of food security and sustainable livestock production.
Stronger disease protection
For swine and poultry producers, the program offers hope of more affordable, effective vaccines that can stabilize production and reduce reliance on imports. Industry stakeholders view the initiative as a step toward self‑reliance and resilience in animal health.
The DA said the program underscores its commitment to protecting the livestock sector and ensuring food security. With research underway and facilities rising, the agency projects the Philippines will soon produce its own vaccines. This achievement could reshape the country’s animal health landscape and signal a stronger future for farmers.