On 29 October 2024, the GPCCI, in partnership with Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, and supported by the German Embassy Manila has conducted the Roundtable Discussion on the Urgency of Avian Influenza Vaccines in the Philippines. The event tackled the status of avian influenza in the Philippines, including the most recent updates on the virus and its impact on the affected areas and industries, importance of vaccines to address the situation, and the strategies needed for vaccines development and preparedness in the country.
The event started with an overview of the recent updates of avian influenza status in the Philippines. Dr. Oscar Cabanayan, Assistant Director of the Bureau of Animal Industry introduced a high cost of losses caused by Avian Influenza along with the discovery of different subtypes since 2022. Despite this, Dr. Cabanayan presented statistics showing BAI’s efforts in resolving avian influenza cases throughout the Philippines.
Dr. Emil Dela Pena, Poultry Technical Manager of Boehringer Ingelheim Philippines, tackled the importance of the vaccines to mitigate the impact of avian influenza and its overall prevention in the country. He emphasized the need for a multi-faceted approach such as biosecurity, surveillance, and vaccination are essential to prevent the spread and major impact of avian influenza in the Philippines.
To discuss the industry perspective, Mr. Francis Uyehara, Philippine Egg Board Association President, presented that from the layers’ perspective, there have been significant economic losses. He ended his presentation by highlighting the importance of fast tracking the availability of approved AI vaccines.
Dr. Sherwin Camba of the Philippine College of Poultry Practitioners presented the strategies for the development and preparedness on avian influenza vaccines in the country. He underscored that the avian influenza vaccines may be utilized for emergency protection and preventive approach in the Philippines. Dr. Camba ended his presentation with an emphasis on the vitality of joint and multisectoral health approach in successfully eradicating avian influenza.
After the presentations, panelists from various industry groups and key stakeholders in the topic discussed how to approach the challenges surrounding avian influenza in the Philippines. Industry groups manifested the need for government intervention and support in fast tracking the availability of vaccines to prevent further losses for businesses. On the other hand, the government also mentioned the need for private sector support in addressing avian influenza.
The urgency of addressing avian influenza in the Philippines has been made clear through the shared knowledge and expertise of our distinguished speakers. From understanding the current state of outbreaks to exploring the vital role of vaccines in disease prevention, a significant step has been taken toward protecting both the poultry industry and public health.
