BY FELIPE F. MONTEALTO JR.
CONFRONTED by the global crisis and public health emergency caused by COVID-19 pandemic, the public and private sectors have been struggling, especially in sourcing the much-needed medical supplies and consumables (such as personal protective equipment, n95/surgical mask, face shield, goggle, gown, surgical glove, shoe cover, infrared forehead thermometer, 70 percent alcohol, Vitamin C, tissue paper), to name a few.
Because of COVID-19, there are major changes especially on the movement of people, business operations and logistics. And in spite of the government’s order of a price hike and strict surveillance, shrewd businessmen and hoarders do not seem to be affected by these because “discreet sale” could be consummated anyway.
In 2018, I attended the Medical Fair Asia in Marina Bay Sands hosted by Singapore’s Ministry of Health. At the event, almost all countries around the world provide pavilions or stands for companies. In fact, countries such as Canada, Qatar, Malaysia, Turkey, United Kingdom, China, and Japan gave support to their exhibitors. Unfortunately, the Philippines did not have a single Pavilion that would have provided a venue for our local medical equipment and supplies.
The Singapore event seems to have a connect with the current situation in the Philippines. If our country has a strong and robust life science industry base, we could have addressed the shortage of medical supplies, devices and consumables for our own needs and beyond.
It is a clarion call for government agencies such as the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) under the leadership of its Director General, Brigadier General Charito B. Plaza. PEZA can take an active role in the development, growth and prosperity of our life science industries as a leading component of our economy. As there is an importance in the advancement of technology and healthcare in our contemporary times, the Philippines must develop and strengthen these industries, to include R&D, pharmaceuticals, innovative biotechnology firms, research institutes and other important centers of expertise. As such, it seeks to provide an ideal backdrop for a life science location of international importance.
Through investment promotion strategies, PEZA can promote the Philippines as an investment destination for healthcare locators especially, in the field of Medical Technology, Biotechnology, Pharmaceuticals, and Biomedical Engineering. Given these programs and projects, it will enable the country discover and develop anti-viral therapies for the treatment of respiratory illnesses based on an innovative technology platform. The Philippines has an excellent pool of experts with broad technical, scientific expertise that could greatly contribute to major developments in the field of life sciences. The government’s top priority therefore is to support the sector and place life sciences on its top agenda.
The government must unequivocally support the private sector expand its linkage to medical companies looking for international business partners. Activities such as online marketing services, customised B2B services, partner search, mentoring program and business development consultancy can be provided to assist Philippine medical equipment and supply expand their international trade and relations. Aim is to create a multi-channel of international network of distributors that will strengthen the industry. Training and development must be likewise considered in pursuit of these projects.
At the outset, all this will result a very proactive approach and will contribute greatly to the country’s immediate and long-term needs./PN
