(15 January 2021) — The Bureau of International Health Cooperation (BIHC) facilitated the conduct of a virtual courtesy call between His Excellency Marat Pavlov, the new Ambassador of the Russian Federation and Secretary of Health Francisco T. Duque III last 13 January 2021 at 10:00 AM. He was joined by the office of Director Napoleon Arevalo of the Disease Prevention and Control Bureau and by Dr. Buenaventura and Dr. Fabellon of the BIHC.

The esteemed Ambassador highlighted the intent of the Russian Federation to pursue cooperation in COVID-19 vaccines and emphasized the support that Russia can extend to the Philippines. He also relayed information that the Russian manufacturer of Gam-COVID-Vac (Sputnik V) vaccine has applied for emergency use authorization. The Secretary of Health, in response, expressed gratitude for the support of the Russian Federation, and expressed his hopes for the cooperation to move forward in the future.

(from top) H.E. Marat Pavlov discusses vaccine matters with the Secretary of Health (top). The videocall was attended by Director Arevalo of the DPCB, and by staff from the BIHC (bottom).

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