(01 October 2020) — His Excellency Igor Khovaev, outgoing Ambassador of the Russian Federation met with Secretary of Health Francisco T. Duque III at his office in the Department of Health (DOH) for a farewell courtesy call last 30 September 2020, at 11:00 AM. The Ambassador was accompanied by First Secretary Vladislav Mongush while the Secretary of Health was accompanied by staff from the Office of the Secretary and the Bureau of International Health Cooperation.

During the farewell courtesy call, the Russian Ambassador highlighted the improved Philippine-Russia bilateral ties, including in health, and expressed the intent from the Russian Federation to pursue the cooperation in vaccine development, manufacturing, and procurement, among others. H.E. Khovaev also requested the support from the Secretary of Health to help facilitate the necessary process for the Russian Federation in connection with the Gam-COVID-Vac (Sputnik V) vaccine. The Secretary of Health relayed that the Department of Health, supported by other national agencies, would be providing support as it is capable, consistent with Philippines laws and regulations.

This farewell courtesy call is part of a series of visits by Ambassador Khovaev, who is set to finish his term on 16 October 2020.

In this photo, outgoing Ambassador, H.E. Igor Khovaev (left), discusses vaccine matters with the Secretary of Health (right). Staff from the office of the Secretary (OSEC) can be seen taking notes in the background.

Photo from the Bureau of International Health Cooperation, Department of Health - Philippines