PNP to arrest individuals involved in illegal use, distribution of ivermectin

The Philippine National Police's Criminal Investigation and Detection Group on Sunday said it has directed its subordinate units to implement measures to monitor the distribution and use of ivermectin nationwide.

In a statement, the CIDG also said that it will investigate and intensify police operations against violations of Republic Act 9711 and of the Food And Drug Administration’s (FDA) compassionate special permit for the use of the drug.

The PNP last week said it had been ordered to arrest individuals involved in the illegal sale and use of ivermectin under a memorandum President Rodrigo Duterte issued last month.

Ivermectin has been touted by some people as a treatment for COVID-19, though the World Health Organization (WHO), the US FDA, the European Medicines Agency (EMA), and even ivermectin manufacturer Merck have all said that there is a lack of data and evidence of its efficacy in COVID-19 prevention and treatment.

According to Glen Juego’s report on Super Radyo dzBB last Thursday, PNP spokesperson Police Brigadier General Ildebrandi Usana said he had been in talks with the CIDG on the directive.

Aside from the arrest of individuals, authorities were also directed to confiscate the medicine.

CIDG director Police Major General Albert Ferro said they will go after those who will violate the said provisions, specifically on fake, unregistered/ unlicensed, and no permit on the sales and distribution of the said drugs.

“The CIDG will assist the FDA in suppressing or deterring lawless elements in their criminal acts of endangering the well-being of the community,” he said.

“We strongly advise the public to seek professional help and opinion before using the said drug and buy only from authorized sources. We also encourage them to report any illegal dispense and use of the said medicine,” Ferro added.

The FDA has previously said that ivermectin is not yet registered in the Philippines.

However, it granted a hospital’s application for "compassionate use" of ivermectin on humans with COVID-19.

FDA Director-General Eric Domingo last week said that ivermectin, an anti-parasitic drug used on animals, is only legal if prescribed by a physician and compounded by a licensed pharmacy. — Joahna Lei Casilao and Ma. Angelica Garcia/BM, GMA News