DA, DOH sign pact allowing BAI to assist FDA in testing animal drugs, vaccines

The Department of Agriculture (DA) on Tuesday signed an agreement with the Department of Health (DOH) allowing its attached agency, the Bureau of Animal Industry (BAI), to assist the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in testing animal vaccines and drugs.

In a news release, the DA said a memorandum of agreement was signed among the four agencies.

Under the agreement, the BAI is tasked to conduct evaluations to determine the safety and efficacy of both local and imported vaccines and biologics, and endorse private applications to the FDA for the issuance of certificate of product registration to local and imported veterinary products and provide the FDA with evaluation reports.

Also under the agreement, the FDA is tasked to issue a license to operate (LTO) to manufacturers, traders and distributors, and retailers of veterinary drugs and products, including vaccines and biologics.

The FDA is also expected to issue a certificate of no objection for the BAI's importation of animal vaccines and biologics for its evaluation and research.

Among the animal diseases affecting the livestock and poultry industry are Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and African Swine Fever (ASF).

"This MOA will significantly strengthen our fight against transboundary animal diseases such as African Swine Fever and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza. By enhancing our regulatory framework and fostering greater cooperation among key agencies, we can better safeguard the animal industry, secure the livelihoods of our farmers, and mitigate the impact on our economy," said Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr.

"At the DA, we are fully committed to the agreement as a means to ensure the safety and efficacy of veterinary drugs and products, not only for the well-being of our animals but also for the protection of public health," said Tiu Laurel.

For his part, FDA Director General Samuel Zacate said the collaboration between the BAI and the FDA "is testament to the renewed commitment of the government to strengthen its presence in securing public welfare."

"We pledge to provide the necessary resources, expertise, and support to BAI as it undertakes its responsibilities under this agreement. We pledge to uphold the highest standards of quality and safety in the veterinary sector," said Zacate. — VDV, GMA Integrated News